New York, NY (July 19, 2017) – Barry Watkins, executive vice president and chief communications officer at The Madison Square Garden Company, announced today that he has decided to step down from his current role and begin transitioning to the newly-created role of special adviser to the office of the chairman. In addition, he will remain chairman of the Garden of Dreams Foundation.
“After spending my entire career over the last 34 years at MSG, in a role with constant 24/7 demands, I have decided that it’s the right time in my life to scale back,” said Mr. Watkins. “I am grateful to Jim Dolan and Doc O’Connor for their understanding, and for their willingness to allow me to remain an important part of the company I have been privileged to call home since 1983.”
The transition process will develop over time, and Mr. Watkins will remain in his current role until the transition is complete.
“I have been so proud to be a part of the extraordinary growth of MSG over the years, and to witness firsthand some of the most iconic moments in our history,” added Mr. Watkins. “I look forward to contributing further in a new way, and experiencing even more unforgettable events in the future.”
About The Madison Square Garden Company
The Madison Square Garden Company (MSG) is a world leader in live sports and entertainment experiences. The company presents or hosts a broad array of premier events in its diverse collection of iconic venues: New York’s Madison Square Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre; the Forum in Inglewood, CA; The Chicago Theatre; and the Wang Theatre in Boston. Other MSG properties include legendary sports franchises: the New York Knicks (NBA), the New York Rangers (NHL) and the New York Liberty (WNBA), along with two development league teams — the Westchester Knicks (NBAGL) and the Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL). In addition, the Company features popular original entertainment productions — the Christmas Spectacular and New York Spectacular – both starring the Radio City Rockettes, and through Boston Calling Events, produces outdoor festivals, including New England’s preeminent Boston Calling Music Festival. Also under the MSG umbrella is TAO Group, a world-class hospitality group with globally-recognized entertainment dining and nightlife brands: Tao, Marquee, Lavo, Avenue, The Stanton Social, Beauty & Essex and Vandal. More information is available at www.themadisonsquaregardencompany.com