Octagon Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Octagon has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and strategy.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Octagon provides comprehensive sports and entertainment agency services, focusing on marketing, sponsorship, and talent representation to shape market impact.

Leadership Roles at Octagon

  • Chief Financial Officer - Nancy Morton
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Nicole Sarakos
  • President - Charles Zicari
  • President - Merrill Shields
  • Events, President, Marketing (North America) - Lou Kovacs
  • Chief of Staff - Taylor Rice
  • Nancy Morton - Chief Financial Officer

    Nancy Morton, the Chief Financial Officer at Octagon, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, Morton ensures robust financial health and compliance across the organization. This leadership role involves managing investment portfolios and optimizing capital allocation to support Octagon's growth initiatives in sports and entertainment marketing. By analyzing market trends and financial performance, Nancy Morton drives strategic decision-making to enhance profitability and shareholder value. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to risk management and ensuring the long-term financial stability of the agency's diverse operations. Morton's expertise underpins the agency's ability to secure and manage major sponsorship deals and athlete contracts, directly contributing to Octagon's market leadership.
    Nancy Morton

    Nicole Sarakos - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Nicole Sarakos, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Octagon, provides critical financial oversight and strategic direction. Sarakos manages the agency's financial planning, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring fiscal discipline and compliance with regulatory standards. This executive position involves developing financial models to assess new business opportunities and optimize existing revenue streams within the sports and entertainment sectors. By collaborating with department heads, Nicole Sarakos drives financial performance and supports the agency's expansion efforts. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's role is integral to maintaining Octagon's financial integrity and supporting its global marketing and sponsorship initiatives. Sarakos's leadership ensures the agency's financial resilience and capacity for innovation in a dynamic market.
    Nicole Sarakos

    Charles Zicari - President

    Charles Zicari, the President at Octagon, leads the strategic direction and overall business operations of the agency. Zicari oversees the development and execution of growth strategies, focusing on expanding Octagon's market presence in sports and entertainment marketing and talent representation. This leadership position involves fostering key client relationships and driving innovation across all service lines, including sponsorship and athlete management. By championing a culture of excellence, Charles Zicari ensures the agency consistently delivers superior value to its partners. The President's responsibilities are crucial for navigating the complexities of the global sports landscape and identifying new avenues for revenue generation. Zicari's vision guides Octagon's commitment to providing unparalleled service and achieving impactful results for its roster of clients.

    Merrill Shields - President

    Merrill Shields, the President at Octagon, directs key operational facets and strategic growth initiatives for the agency. Shields focuses on enhancing the agency's capabilities in athlete and talent representation, alongside marketing and sponsorship services. This presidential role involves cultivating strong partnerships and ensuring the seamless delivery of integrated campaigns that resonate with target audiences. By driving operational efficiency, Merrill Shields supports the agency's mission to provide best-in-class solutions within the sports and entertainment industries. The President's oversight is vital for maintaining Octagon's competitive edge and adapting to evolving market demands. Shields's leadership ensures the agency remains at the forefront of innovation, delivering exceptional value and driving success for clients worldwide.

    Lou Kovacs - Events, President, Marketing (North America)

    Lou Kovacs, the Events, President, Marketing (North America) at Octagon, spearheads event strategies and marketing initiatives across the North American region. Kovacs oversees the planning and execution of high-impact events, driving engagement and maximizing sponsorship value for clients. This multifaceted role involves leading marketing efforts to enhance brand visibility and market penetration within the sports and entertainment sectors. By fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, Lou Kovacs ensures the successful delivery of integrated marketing campaigns and event experiences. The President, Marketing (North America)'s responsibilities are critical for expanding Octagon's footprint and delivering exceptional results in a key market. Kovacs's expertise in event management and marketing leadership significantly contributes to the agency's success and client satisfaction.
    Lou Kovacs

    Taylor Rice - Chief of Staff

    Taylor Rice, the Chief of Staff at Octagon, facilitates strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the agency. Rice coordinates cross-departmental projects, ensuring alignment with executive objectives and driving key business priorities forward. This role involves managing internal communications, supporting board relations, and optimizing workflow processes to enhance productivity. By acting as a central point of contact for executive leadership, Taylor Rice streamlines decision-making and resource allocation. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include developing and implementing strategic plans that support Octagon's mission in sports and entertainment marketing and talent representation. Rice's focus on operational excellence ensures that the agency effectively delivers on its commitments to clients and partners, reinforcing Octagon's position as a premier agency.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Octagon Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Octagon?
    Octagon is led by Nancy Morton (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Nicole Sarakos (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Charles Zicari (President).
    Who is part of Octagon’s executive team?
    The executive team of Octagon includes leaders such as Nancy Morton (Chief Financial Officer), Nicole Sarakos (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Charles Zicari (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Octagon have?
    Octagon has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Octagon’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Octagon includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Events, President, Marketing (North America).