Clippers hire Gillian Zucker to be new president of business operations
The Los Angeles Clippers made a big move Thursday, hiring Gillian Zucker to be the new president of business operations, the team announced.
Zucker joins the Clippers after spending the previous nine years as president of the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, Calif, where, in 2005, she became the first woman in the United States to run a major race track. As a result, Zucker was named one of the top-five most powerful women in motorsports by MSN and FOX.
"What an exciting time to be part of the L.A. Clippers," Zucker said, via a press release. "There's something special happening in this organization that has captured the attention of Los Angeles, the NBA and the nation. Steve Ballmer's energy and enthusiasm is contagious and inspiring. We are just getting started."
Zucker joins Ballmer as the faces of the Clippers' business side of basketball, a role head coach Doc Rivers has had a hand in since the 2013 postseason.
Between Ballmer and Zucker, the Clippers' front office definitely won't lack energy. Zucker, according to a Inland Valley Daily Bulletin profile, once kept track of her movements during a NASCAR race weekend, where she tallied over 30 miles traveled. She's a mover and a shaker who has a vision for bettering the products she works with.
"I am extremely happy to add a leader like Gillian to our team," Ballmer said. "Her clear and creative business vision, innovative approach to marketing and experience working in the Los Angeles sports market make her the perfect fit to lead the Clippers during this transcendent time."
