Panthers Hire Tech‑Savvy Leader for Business Ops

The Florida Panthers have tapped Michael White to run the business side of the team. White will manage all four venues: Amerant Bank Arena, Baptist Health IcePlex, Panthers IceDen, and War Memorial Auditorium. He joined the club after a long stint at Amazon’s self‑driving car unit, Zoox, where he handled product strategy and daily operations. Before that, White spent eleven years at Disney in senior roles across parks, media and retail. The previous president left for a top job with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx, creating a vacancy that the Panthers filled through a rigorous search. General manager Bill Zito, who also oversees hockey operations, played a key role in the hiring process.

White recalls an early‑morning call from Zito while the GM was in Italy with the U. S. Olympic team. “That call showed how friendly and supportive the organization is, ” he said, noting it made him feel welcome. Zito welcomed White as a “battle buddy, ” praising his intellect and character. Both leaders expressed excitement about working together to strengthen the club’s brand and community ties. White calls the Panthers a “world‑class organization, ” citing their recent back‑to‑back championships. He believes his experience in tech and entertainment will help the team grow both on and off the ice. The appointment signals the Panthers’ commitment to blending innovative business practices with a strong hockey culture.

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