Masters of Scale Rapid Response: Operating in a fishbowl w/Philly 76ers & NJ Devils CEO Scott O’Neil
May 9, 2020
Scott O'Neil, CEO of the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils, shares insights from leading sports franchises during the pandemic. He discusses the intense scrutiny of decisions, like salary cuts, and the importance of mental health and community care. O'Neil emphasizes innovative strategies for adapting the sports business model and the need for sports to reconnect communities during tough times. He also highlights programs like 'Lobatical' that prioritize employee well-being, showing that compassion in leadership can enhance the overall experience for fans and staff.
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NBA Suspends Play
- Scott O'Neil was at the Wells Fargo Center when the NBA suspended play due to Rudy Gobert's positive COVID-19 test.
- After the game, he and his team quickly informed the players, addressed the media, and left.
Unexpected Mental Health Challenges
- While Scott O'Neil was aware of the developing COVID-19 situation in China, the mental health challenges posed by the lockdown were unexpected.
- O'Neil's team had prepared for a distributed workforce, enabling a seamless transition.
Pay Cut Reversal
- O'Neil suggested 20% pay cuts to avoid layoffs, anticipating financial hardship, but reversed the decision after ownership faced backlash.
- The decision was made with good intentions but ultimately a misstep due to timing and public perception.