Dodgers News: Lakers Hire Dodgers Executive VP & Chief Marketing Officer Lon Rosen
Rosen’s move further reflects the strengthened ties between the Dodgers and Lakers organizations since Mark Walter’s ownership group took control of the Lakers, deepening the cross-franchise executive
LOS ANGELES, CA—Last summer, the relationship between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Lakers reached new heights as Dodgers owner Mark Walter became the owner of both sports franchises.
Shortly after the purchase, Walter agreed to retain the previous owner Jeanie Buss as governor of the team, alongside current President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka. He began integrating the two franchises by bringing in Andrew Friedman and special advisor Farhan Zaidi to assist with the transition, all while aiming to manage the franchise in a similar way to the Dodgers.
Now, just before the start of the 2026 Major League Baseball season, that crossover between the two sides is growing with the Lakers hiring Lon Rosen to the President of Business Operations role.
“For many years, I have seen the impact that Lon has had in our industry. Over that time, I have learned that not only is Lon a great person, but he also has a deep understanding of both sports and entertainment and a true feel for where this business is headed,” Buss said in a statement.
Rosen has served as the Dodgers’ executive vice president and chief marketing officer since 2012. During his time with the team, the franchise consistently grew its revenue year over year and has led Major League Baseball in attendance since 2013.
Rosen is well-acquainted with the Lakers organization, where he started his professional journey as an intern. He later joined the Lakers’ front office as an executive in the 1980s before pursuing a career as a sports agent, most famously representing Magic Johnson.
“I’m beyond grateful to Jeanie and Mark for trusting me with this incredible opportunity,” Rosen said. “As everyone knows, the economics of the sports business are constantly changing – and they will continue to do so.
“But, at root, my job is a simple one: figuring out how to do right by our employees and our partners while ensuring that the Lakers continue to provide an unparalleled experience for our fans in Los Angeles and around the world. I look forward to working alongside Jeanie, Rob and the whole front-office team to make that happen.”
Rosen has returned to the Lakers, taking over from Tim Harris, who has spent more than thirty years with the organization. Harris informed the team via email this week of his decision to step down from his role as president of business operations.
Just four months into Walter’s ownership of the Lakers, the franchise has dismissed several scouts, including Joey and Jesse Buss, and replaced their longtime business operations president. This marks a significant first step in rebranding the Lakers towards a hopeful period of dominance, similar to the success the Dodgers experienced under the Guggenheim Baseball Management ownership.
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