Lightning name Leiweke CEO

Tod Leiweke is the new CEO of Tampa Bay Sports and Entertainment, parent company to the National Hockey League's Tampa Bay Lightning, as well as the St. Pete Times Forum. Leiweke will soon become a minority owner of Tampa Bay Sports, as well.

The Lightning's new CEO comes from Seattle, where Leiweke served in the same capacity for the National Football League's Seattle Seahawks.

“I'm sorry to see him go, but I know hockey is his first love,” said Seahawks owner Paul Allen in a release.

Prior to his most recent position, Leiweke obtained experience working in the NHL, having served as president for the Minnesota Wild. He also spent time as an executive vice president with the Vancouver Canucks.

“I envision a day when the Lightning will regularly play in front of sold-out crowds at the St. Pete Times Forum and be recognized as one of the leading corporate citizens in Tampa Bay,” Leiweke said of his new position.