FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Chris Widmaier
212-450-2066
widmaierc@nfl.com

NEW YORK, MAY 9, 2000 – NFL Executive Vice Presidents Roger Goodell and Tom Spock have been named by Commissioner Paul Tagliabue to head the league’s business operations, the NFL announced today.

Goodell’s revised title is Executive Vice President of Business, Properties and Club Services. Previously, he was Executive Vice President of League & Football Development.

Spock’s new title is Executive Vice President for New Media/Internet and Enterprises. Previously, he was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

The announcement is part of Commissioner Tagliabue’s re-organization of the NFL office.

"This revised structure will create a flatter, less hierarchical organization designed to meet the challenge of managing complex issues," Commissioner Tagliabue said. "Many, if not most, league operations overlap and require teamwork across various units. 'Teamwork’ will be the organizing principle of our new structure."

In his new role, Goodell will manage NFL Properties and other business and club services. These functions will include sponsorship, retailing, licensing, branding and marketing, publishing, fan development and other functions that NFL Properties has performed for many years.  

Goodell will continue to oversee stadium construction and game operations support as well as other functions and special events, including the post-season and Super Bowl.

Spock will manage all business operations currently within NFL Enterprises, including NFL.com and NFL Sunday Ticket. He will manage any future operations that involve new electronic and digital media. NFL Films will principally fall within this unit, with Films’ resources being integrated into the NFL’s Internet and other new media programs.

Spock’s area will develop a leaguewide strategic business plan to supplement current NFL network television distribution (both broadcast and cable) with new media technologies.

"Our goal is to integrate the League office, Properties, and other business units into a combined, leaguewide organization with a unified business plan and common strategic vision," said Commissioner Tagliabue. "Roger Goodell and Tom Spock are part of the next generation of talented executives now in place in our office who will carry out this plan."

Goodell has been with the NFL for 18 years. He has supervised the successful expansion of the NFL from 28 to 32 teams, the most extensive stadium building period in league history, and the development of the NFL’s international business, including the launch of the current NFL Europe League.

Spock came to the NFL in 1993 following a nine-year stint at NBC. As CFO, he has overseen all league financial matters, including team franchise sales, the League’s salary cap, and the financing of new stadium construction. He also has been involved in the League’s network television planning and negotiations. A new CFO will be hired to replace Spock in that role.