Indiana Sports Corp. Makes Key Appointments
Samantha Cross and Melissa Thompson
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indiana Sports Corp. has made several changes as it continues to prepare for a series of high-profile sporting events in Indianapolis. The organization says it has created three key positions to help address future staffing needs and a dedicated position for Indy Championships Fund Inc.
Melissa Caito, former vice president of corporate and executive affairs at ISC, will serve as chief administrative officer for ICF. As the lone full-time employee of ICF, Caito will be responsible for the organizational marketing initiatives, execution of strategic planning, and partner events and fulfillment.
In December, the Indiana Sports Corp. established the Indy Championships Fund Inc., which has set a goal of raising $25 million to support the events.
The ISC has named Samantha Cross (pictured) chief operations officer. Cross, who previously served as vice president of events with the ISC, will oversee the strategic direction of the organization’s events, business development, marketing and public relations, and youth initiatives departments.
Melissa Thompson (pictured), a former project manager with Indianapolis-based Hathaway Strategies, will serve as chief community officer. She will be responsible for board affairs, community initiatives, event bids, government relations, and will serve as the ISC’s board appointment to Sports Indiana.
"Indy is poised for an incredible run and I couldn’t be happier that we have two experienced senior leaders in Susan and Melissa willing to step up and assume new roles in our community to help ensure these events are a great success," said Indiana Sports Corp President Ryan Vaughn. "The future for Indy and the Indiana Sports Corp is bright and we’re excited to get started on the next chapter of success."
The ISC is also looking to fill the newly-created position of chief talent officer. The individual selected for the job will be responsible for developing and implementing programs designed to attract and develop top talent to meet the needs of the organization and its partners.
Indianapolis is set to host a number of major sports events over the next few years, including the 2021 NCAA Men’s Final Four, the 2021 NBA All-Star Weekend, the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship. The events, along with other tournaments scheduled for Indy, are expected to generate $670 million in economic impact.