Tim Connolly (American football)
Timothy M. Connolly | |
|---|---|
| Alma mater | George Washington University (Finance and Marketing, 1971) |
| Occupation(s) | Sports executive, business executive |
| Known for | Leadership roles in NFL franchises; CEO of Bell Atlantic Mobile Systems |
Timothy M. Connolly is a seasoned American executive who has held prominent leadership positions within four National Football League franchises. Prior to his involvement in professional sports, he served as CEO of Bell Atlantic Mobile Systems.
Early life
The son of a United States Navy officer, Connolly experienced life in various American cities before his family ultimately settled in Washington, D.C.. He began his higher education at the University of Atlanta before transferring to George Washington University, where he graduated in 1971 with a degree in finance and marketing.
Early career
Connolly launched his professional journey at IBM as a sales representative, progressing into sales management roles. He later established Top Performers, a sports agency, which he sold in 1983 to accept the position of vice president of sales and marketing at American Sign & Indicator. There, he played a pivotal role in securing the scoreboard contract for the 1984 Summer Olympics.
Bell Atlantic
In July 1985, Connolly joined A Beeper Co., a Bell Atlantic subsidiary, as vice president of sales and marketing. He subsequently rose to become president and CEO of Bell Atlantic Mobile Systems during a phase marked by rapid expansion. By 1988, he had advanced to president and chief operating officer at Sorbus, another company under Bell Atlantic’s umbrella.
Kansas City Chiefs
Connolly was recruited in 1988 by Kansas City Chiefs general manager Carl Peterson to strengthen the franchise’s marketing initiatives. Together, they enhanced the gameday atmosphere by focusing on pre-game entertainment and tailgating culture, broadened fan access through FM radio broadcasts, and coordinated player caravans in neighboring states. Season ticket sales surged notably under Connolly’s tenure—rising by 5,269 in his initial year and then increasing by 7,862, 13,142, and 12,733 over the subsequent three seasons—ultimately reaching a peak of 65,000. Additionally, Connolly was instrumental in recruiting key executives across public relations, finance, marketing, sales, and stadium operations departments. He was elevated to chief operating officer in 1994 but departed in 1995 to join Ameritech as senior vice president responsible for Worldwide Network Systems. He later returned to serve as president of Hunt Sports Group, overseeing the sports ventures owned by Lamar Hunt.
Minnesota Vikings
On October 26, 1998, Connolly assumed the roles of executive vice president and general manager for the Minnesota Vikings, where he managed daily operations and spearheaded efforts toward replacing the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. Unlike conventional general managers, his responsibilities excluded football operations, which were managed by Jeff Diamond, Dennis Green, and Rob Brzezinski. Connolly stepped down on January 24, 2000. Subsequently, he joined an investment firm engaged in attempting to acquire the National Hockey League's Arizona Coyotes.
Jacksonville Jaguars
In 2003, Connolly was brought on by the Jacksonville Jaguars to lead sales of ticket packages and amenities for Super Bowl XXXIX, successfully generating $30 million in revenue. This accomplishment resulted in owner Wayne Weaver appointing him senior vice president for business development.
Green Bay Packers
In 2010, Connolly was appointed vice president of sales and marketing by the Green Bay Packers, where he directed efforts across marketing strategies, sponsorships, retail operations, premium seat sales, and guest services.
QuintEvents
In 2014, Connolly became a principal at QuintEvents, a company specializing in travel, hospitality, and unique experiences.