After nine years with the LA Galaxy, director of business operations Tom Payne on Friday decided to leave the organization. Payne will be replaced by Chris McGowan, who will assume duties as COO, taking charge of all day-to-day business operations of the club.
McGowan, 38, will hold dual roles with the Galaxy and Los Angeles Kings, for whom he has been COO for the last five years. Both the Galaxy and Kings are owned by AEG.
"With our recent MLS Cup Championship, the return of David Beckham and our outstanding roster heading into this season, the Galaxy will continue their rapid growth in this marketplace under Chris’ leadership," said AEG CEO Tim Leiweke. "Also with the addition of our new partnership with Time Warner Cable Sports, we now have a tremendous opportunity to significantly increase our reach and support in both the English and Spanish-speaking population, and with Chris’ knowledge combined with AEG’s resources, we expect that growth to be unprecedented in our history with the Galaxy."
Payne will temporarily remain with the Galaxy to assist in the transition. "After nine great years here at The Home Depot Center, I have made the decision to leave the Galaxy organization. I have enjoyed my time with the club and have fond memories of all the great things that we have accomplished, including winning the MLS Cup last year in front of our home fans," Payne said Friday in a statement.
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