Schanwald is involved in all aspects of the Bulls business operations, including ticket and sponsorship sales, broadcasting and game entertainment, advertising and promotions.
December 17, 2013 -- Steve Schanwald has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the Chicago Sports Commission, a new position created to serve alongside Chairman John Murray. The role of both the Chairman and the Vice Chair includes assistance with community engagement initiatives, securing local corporate support and long term strategic planning for the Chicago Sports Commission. Schanwald has been a member of the Chicago Sports Commission’s Advisory Council and Board of Directors since the organization’s inception in 2011.
“Steve’s illustrious career in the sports industry speaks for itself. We are thrilled to have him take on a larger role within our organization,” expressed Chairman John Murray. “With his profound knowledge of Chicago, as well as the sports industry, he will greatly assist us in continuing to position Chicago as the premier destination for sport tourism.”
Schanwald is the Executive Vice President-Business Operations for the Chicago Bulls, having joined the team during the 1986-87 season. He is involved in all aspects of the Bulls business operations, including ticket and sponsorship sales, broadcasting and game entertainment, advertising and promotions and additionally serves as the Senior Vice President-Marketing for the United Center. Schanwald’s impressive accomplishments with the Bulls include numerous awards for marketing and advertising excellence, creating the NBA’s first Community Relations Department, establishing the Bulls Digital Marketing Department and founding CharitaBulls, the predecessor to Chicago Bulls Charities.
“I am honored to have been invited to serve in this role which combines two of my greatest passions – sports and the city of Chicago,” remarked Schanwald. “I look forward to working with John and everyone associated with the commission to contribute in a meaningful way to help bring the world’s greatest sporting events to the greatest city in America.”
The Chicago Sports Commission’s Executive Director, Sam Stark, echoed the sentiment of enthusiasm and gratitude over Schanwald’s increased role, noting that “Steve’s support of the Chicago Sports Commission over the past two years has been invaluable. He played an integral role in bringing the first Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament to Chicago in 1998 and was an incredible resource for us during the 2013 Tournament. His experience and talent will be instrumental in the continued growth and reach of the Chicago Sports Commission.”
His appointment is effective immediately.
About the Chicago Sports Commission
The Chicago Sports Commission pursues, supports and attracts sporting events and sport-related business opportunities to Chicago that will positively impact the city’s economy. These efforts will continuously raise the sports profile of Chicago while establishing the city as a premier destination for sport tourism in the world. For more information visit www.chicagosportscommission.com, https://www.facebook.com/ChiSportsComm or https://twitter.com/ChiSportsComm.