This week, the Orlando Business Journal named Orlando City Soccer Club CEO Alex Leitao as one of their 2017 CEOs of the Year.
“A total of 22 highest-level local executives were chosen among this year’s honorees,” according to an article posted on the Orlando Business Journal’s website. “Individuals who demonstrated significant achievements in their careers in the past year have a strong record of innovation, outstanding performance in their work and are actively involved in our community.”
In the past year, Leitao has led Orlando City Soccer Club to much success. The organization continued to grow their MLS team, while also launching an NWSL and a USL team. The club launched LionNation, an exclusive membership that puts fans closer to the club. The MLS team opened their 2016 season to a sold-out crowd of 60,000+, and the organization has brought in a wealth of talent for both the men’s and women’s sides. Amongst those names: Marta, Will Johnson, Ali Krieger, and Jonathan Spector.
But no accomplishment stands out more than the opening of Orlando City Stadium. The soccer-specific stadium has been hailed as one of the best stadiums in the country. From creating the first safe-standing section in North America to creating a moving tribute to the Pulse, the stadium honors the community it serves and seeks to serve them to the best of their ability. In building this place, Leitao created a home for his players, his staff, and his community.
Leitao has had quite a year with Orlando City. And this is only the start.
