Friday, January 18, 2013

OSEG Appoints CEO

Press Release

January 17, 2013 (Ottawa, ON.): The Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) today announced that Bernie Ashe has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO).  Mr. Ashe will oversee all facets of OSEG’s operations, including sports franchises, entertainment business and Lansdowne Park operations.  He’ll also work closely with the City of Ottawa to ensure the Lansdowne Partnership Plan is implemented as approved by City Council, and the new Lansdowne stands as a model of modern-day innovation in an urban form.

“I’m delighted that Bernie has agreed to join OSEG and lead our business operations,” said OSEG Partner, Roger Greenberg.  “From the beginning, we planned to hire a CEO with a track-record of success in diverse industries, including Sports and Entertainment, and we’ve certainly found one in Bernie.  He also has deep roots in our community and a history of community service, which speaks to his integrity and our core values.  Bernie will be a great asset to our organization and our city.”

OSEG has partnered with the City of Ottawa to revitalize and manage Lansdowne Park, which will house a 24,000 seat stadium, 9,800 seat arena, the historic Aberdeen Pavilion and Horticulture Building, the Ottawa Farmer’s Market, a new commercial district, an office tower, two condominium towers, townhomes and an urban park.  OSEG will manage the facilities and own and operate a CFL football team, an NASL soccer team and the Ottawa 67’s OHL hockey team.

“I’m thrilled and honoured to be part of such an incredible team of community leaders and to be involved in such an important community project,” said Bernie Ashe.  “The New Lansdowne will soon be one of Ottawa’s most inviting, year-round destinations for everyone in our region, and my role is to ensure that it remains vibrant and viable for decades to come.”

Prior to joining OSEG, Mr. Ashe served as CEO of KOTT Group, a privately held company in the supply and installation of lumber and related products in the Homebuilding industry.  Before his work with KOTT, he served as President and CEO of AiT, now 3M-AiT Ltd, a TSX-listed company providing solutions for traveler identity and border control.  He was also the Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer of the NHL’s Ottawa Senators from 1991 – 1997.  A trustee and former Chairman of CHEO, Mr. Ashe also serves on the Board of the Ottawa Convention Centre and has served as a Board member for the Canadian Advanced Technology Association.  He was also a member of the Mayor’s Leadership Table on Homelessness and currently resides in Ottawa with his wife Nancy and their three children.

About OSEG

The Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group is a partnership of five Ottawa business and community leaders. The partners; Roger Greenberg, John Ruddy, Jeff Hunt, William Shenkman and John Pugh, each own successful business enterprises and are well-known in Ottawa for distinguished community service.  In June 2010, Ottawa City Council voted to partner with OSEG and proceed with the revitalization of Lansdowne Park.  More information on the Lansdowne Partnership can be found on the City of Ottawa website: www.Ottawa.ca.  

(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

No comments: