Howard Handler Named 313 Presents President

Handler will oversee booking, production, marketing and business opportunities at Little Caesars Arena, Comerica Park, Fox Theatre, DTE Energy Music Theatre, Meadow Brook Amphitheatre and Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill. He will report to the 313 Presents board of directors that includes executives from Ilitch Holdings and Platinum Equity. Handler takes over for interim president Tom Wilson, who held the post since the company’s launch in late 2017.

Handler most recently served as president of h2 Advisors, a full-service consulting firm that included the XFL, blockchain software development firm ConsenSys and several leading sports media investors. From 2011-17, Handler was the chief marketing officer for Major League Soccer, leading all strategic marketing, digital, content, data, events and communication. 

Handler also served as executive vice president of marketing & sales for The Madison Square Garden Company from 2009-11.

“I’m excited to join 313 Presents and return to my hometown of Detroit,” Handler said in a statement. “This city has come a long way, and this organization has made an impressive impact on the live entertainment landscape in two short years; I’m eager to build on that momentum and, through music and marquee events, help further add to the quality of life in Detroit. I look forward to working with our industry partners, our venues, our corporate partners, key technology providers, and artists of all types and genres as we aspire to provide unmatched access and experiences for the incredible music fans in Detroit and beyond.”