MLBPA Makes Staffing Changes

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner announced changes in the staffing structure of the MLBPA business affairs group.

Tim Slavin, Assistant General Counsel responsible for business matters, assumes the title of Director of Business Affairs and Licensing/Senior Counsel, Business. He will now oversee the day-to-day operations of all MLBPA commercial activities and related legal matters.

Richard White, General Manager, Licensing, is now General Manager, Business Affairs, Media and International. In this role, he will focus on the MLBPA business interests in media in all forms, especially digital entertainment and television. Richard’s duties also will extend to international business matters, including international play.

Evan Kaplan, Category Director, Trading Cards/Collectibles/New Business Development is taking on the role of Director, Licensing and Business Development, overseeing all of the MLBPA’s core licensing categories, including trading cards and apparel, among others.

Nancy Willis, Category Director, Retail Development and Apparel, is elevated to Senior Category Director, Retail Development and Apparel. In addition, Nancy assumes the role of Director, Events.

“I’m excited about this opportunity,” said Slavin. “And I’m looking forward to working with Richard, Evan, Nancy and the entire business affairs staff as we work with our partners to build and expand existing programs, while at the same time develop new and exciting initiatives for fans.”

“These changes create a staffing configuration that will better support the commercial goals and interests of the MLBPA in today’s ever-changing and challenging business and legal environments,” stated Weiner. “I have great confidence in Tim’s ability to lead our group. Between them, Tim, Richard, Evan and Nancy possess a tremendous amount of industry, business and licensing experience that will continue to support, preserve and protect the commercial interests and rights of Major Leaguers as a group. I’m certain that the Players Choice group licensing program will not only continue to provide substantial benefits for all players, but also thrive and expand.”