Bill Zito
President, Hockey Operations & General Manager
Miami Connection
Zito has transformed the Florida Panthers into a powerhouse, bringing two Stanley Cups to South Florida and establishing the longest playoff streak in franchise history, boosting local pride and hockey fandom. He co-founded 'Panthers on the Prowl' with his wife Julie, a public art fundraiser featuring panther sculptures that raised $1 million for the American Cancer Society's cancer research and patient services. Zito serves on the Board of Trustees for Fort Lauderdale's Museum of Discovery and Science, supporting education and community engagement.
About
Bill Zito, a Pittsburgh native and former attorney, built a successful career as founder and president of Acme World Sports, representing NHL stars like Tuukka Rask and Tim Thomas before entering front-office roles. He spent seven seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets, rising to vice president of hockey operations, associate GM, and leading their AHL affiliate to a Calder Cup in 2016. Zito joined the Florida Panthers as General Manager on September 2, 2020, and was promoted to President of Hockey Operations and GM on April 15, 2024. Under his leadership, the Panthers won their first Stanley Cup in 2023-24, followed by a second in 2024-25, reached three straight Finals, and secured the Presidents' Trophy and two Atlantic Division titles. His Miami/South Florida connection is deeply rooted through the Panthers, based in Sunrise, with strong ties to Fort Lauderdale and Miami.