David Morehouse said, "After sixteen amazing and rewarding years as a senior executive with the Pittsburgh Penguins, I am stepping down today as president and CEO.
"I want to thank Ron Burkle and Mario Lemieux for taking a chance on me in 2007 and giving this Pittsburgh kid the dream of a lifetime to run his hometown hockey team. During those 16 years I've been lucky enough that this never felt like a "job." It always felt like a partnership - with ownership, players, coaches, staff, and Pittsburgh fans. We had some incredible times together, including three Stanley Cups and watching Pittsburgh turn into a true hockey town.
"Most importantly I want to thank my family for the support they have given me during this time.
"I'm confident that the Penguins' future is in good hands with Fenway Sports Group. The new ownership group prioritizes winning and that has always been the philosophy of the Pittsburgh Penguins. They have experience running successful franchises and we have some of the best staff in sports already in place. Together, the legacy of the Penguins is sure to continue.
"Thank you so much for all of your support, and, as always, Let's Go Pens."
Fenway Sports Group Principal Owner John Henry and Chairman Tom Werner said, "David informed us today that he would be stepping down from his role as CEO and we have accepted his decision. Brian Burke and Kevin Acklin will continue to guide the day-to-day operations of the club.
"As a leader of the Penguins franchise for nearly a decade and a half, David presided over an era that is formidable in every way. We are grateful for the leadership he has provided throughout this remarkable period, overseeing the construction of a new arena, record sell-outs, and Stanley Cup Championships. David has been instrumental in making the Penguins one of the most successful franchises in the NHL and we are thankful for the immense time, energy, and love he has poured into the organization."
Morehouse joined the team as a consultant on the new arena project in 2004 and was named team president in April 2007. He was given the additional responsibilities of Chief Executive Officer just as the team's new arena was opening in August 2010. During his time as a senior executive with the Penguins, the team won three Stanley Cups, made the Cup Finals four times, and reached the conference finals five times. He helped the Penguins become one of the NHL's strongest business entities, selling out every game for 14-plus seasons, setting new standards for television ratings and corporate partnerships, and increasing the team's focus on innovative youth marketing.
Morehouse was a driving force behind the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, which opened in August 2015. It is the first facility to combine hockey with a world-class medical center and sports performance complex. He joined the Penguins following a career in national politics that included stints at the White House, Pentagon and on Capitol Hill, as well as key roles in two Presidential campaigns.
