SerpApi.Org
As college sports begins to look more and more like its pro counterpart, Rutgers has been adding experienced financial staffers who have worked at the professional level before so that it is not completely left behind. The newest hire for Scarlet Knight Enterprises reflects that mentality, as they have announced the hire of Fred Mangione as CEO. Mangione is a seasoned professional in the field of sports finance, having over 30 years of experience that includes time with several professional teams, including the New York Jets, Brooklyn Nets, and New York Islanders.
Mangione, a graduate of Centenary University who holds degrees in business, management, and marketing, most recently served as Chief Business Officer for the NYNJ Host Committee for the FIFA World Cup, where he led all commercial business functions for the matches at MetLife Stadium, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final. In that role, he helped drive regional fundraising and economic development initiatives through partnerships, hospitality, and ticketing strategies.
Mangione’s role with the Jets was as the franchise’s Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Premium Partnerships. In that role, he helped reverse declining revenue trends and helped the organization rank among the top five NFL teams in revenue.
Before his time with the Jets, Mangione spent 20 years with the Brooklyn Nets organization and the Barclays Center Organization. He played a major role in the team’s rebrand to fit their new home.
Mangione also founded M&M Sports Consulting, where he helped premier brands create, develop, and execute key strategies on naming rights, organizational structure, ticket sales, and corporate sponsorships. Mangione consulted several sports and entertainment properties; the most closely related to Rutgers include the Big 12 Conference, Red Bull New York, NY Islanders, and UBS Arena.
One of Mangione’s main tasks as CEO of Scarlet Knight Enterprises, and the goal of the organization overall, is to expand the department’s revenue stream and help it get into a more sound financial place. He has a good track record of being able to accomplish that at the professional level and has experience working in the Rutgers market as well.
“Scarlet Knight Enterprises was created to accelerate how Rutgers Athletics generates revenue, builds strategic partnerships, and positions itself to compete at a higher level,” said Director of Athletics Keli Zinn in a press release. “Fred Mangione is the ideal leader to help us achieve that vision. Fred has a strong history of delivering exceptional results for some of the most recognizable brands in sports and entertainment. His deep understanding of the New Jersey and New York sports and business landscape will be instrumental to our success.”
