Ilitch Holdings Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ilitch Holdings has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Ilitch Holdings supports a diverse portfolio of brands across food, sports, and entertainment, significantly impacting the Detroit community and beyond through its extensive business operations.

Leadership Roles at Ilitch Holdings

  • Chief Executive Officer - Christopher Ilitch
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - William Joyner
  • Chief Financial Officer - Kathleen Rhodes
  • President - Thomas Wilson
  • Christopher Ilitch - Chief Executive Officer

    Christopher Ilitch, the Chief Executive Officer at Ilitch Holdings, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the group's diverse portfolio. Overseeing companies spanning food, sports, and entertainment, Christopher Ilitch ensures synergistic growth and market leadership across brands like Little Caesars, the Detroit Red Wings, and the Detroit Tigers. This leadership role involves guiding major development projects, such as those managed by Olympia Development, and optimizing distribution networks through Blue Line Distribution. Christopher Ilitch's strategic vision drives the expansion and integration of all Ilitch-owned enterprises, solidifying their presence in key markets and fostering continued innovation within each sector. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on enhancing brand value and maximizing operational efficiencies throughout the entire organization.
    Christopher Ilitch

    William Joyner - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    William Joyner, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Ilitch Holdings, collaborates with the Chief Executive Officer to shape and implement the strategic direction of the conglomerate. Joyner's responsibilities encompass driving operational excellence and fostering growth across the food, sports, and entertainment sectors. This involves close coordination with leadership teams at Little Caesars, the Detroit Red Wings, and the Detroit Tigers to ensure cohesive business strategies. William Joyner also plays a critical part in overseeing major initiatives within Olympia Development and Blue Line Distribution, focusing on efficiency and market penetration. The Co-Chief Executive Officer's role is pivotal in aligning corporate objectives with the unique demands of each industry segment, ensuring sustained performance and expanding the group's influence. William Joyner's leadership supports the continuous evolution of Ilitch Holdings' business model.

    Kathleen Rhodes - Chief Financial Officer

    Kathleen Rhodes, the Chief Financial Officer at Ilitch Holdings, manages the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for the entire organization. Rhodes oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment analysis, across the group's diverse holdings in food, sports, and entertainment. This involves ensuring robust financial controls and optimizing capital allocation for brands such as Little Caesars, the Detroit Red Wings, and the Detroit Tigers. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is crucial for evaluating new business opportunities and managing the financial aspects of large-scale projects undertaken by Olympia Development. Kathleen Rhodes directs the treasury functions and works closely with executive leadership to maintain strong financial performance and support long-term growth objectives. Her role is essential in safeguarding assets and driving profitability throughout Ilitch Holdings.

    Thomas Wilson - President

    Thomas Wilson, the President at Ilitch Holdings, directs the operational execution and strategic initiatives across the company's extensive business units. Wilson's leadership focuses on enhancing the performance and market presence of brands within the food, sports, and entertainment industries, including Little Caesars, the Detroit Red Wings, and the Detroit Tigers. This involves overseeing day-to-day operations and driving efficiency improvements within Blue Line Distribution and Olympia Development. The President works in tandem with the Chief Executive Officers to translate strategic goals into actionable plans, ensuring seamless integration and optimal resource utilization. Thomas Wilson's purview includes fostering cross-functional collaboration and championing innovation throughout the organization. His role is critical in maintaining the operational integrity and competitive edge of Ilitch Holdings' diverse portfolio.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ilitch Holdings Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ilitch Holdings?
    Ilitch Holdings is led by Christopher Ilitch (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as William Joyner (Co-Chief Executive Officer) and Kathleen Rhodes (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Ilitch Holdings’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ilitch Holdings includes leaders such as Christopher Ilitch (Chief Executive Officer), William Joyner (Co-Chief Executive Officer), Kathleen Rhodes (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ilitch Holdings have?
    Ilitch Holdings has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ilitch Holdings’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ilitch Holdings includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President.