Paul Hourigan

Paul Hourigan is a Partner at Ryan Sports Ventures, the sports investment arm of the Chicago-based Ryan family. His role involves backing exceptional leaders in businesses within the sports sector, focusing on technology, properties, and media investments. The firm has a notable portfolio that includes interests in teams like the Chicago Bears and AFC Bournemouth, as well as various sports technology enterprises.123

Background and Experience

• Previous Roles: Before joining Ryan Sports Ventures, Hourigan served as the CEO of Global Rugby. His extensive experience in sports management and investment positions him as a key player in shaping the firm's strategic direction.3
• Education: He graduated from Washington and Lee University, where he was also a soccer player. Additionally, he holds a JD/MBA from Emory University.3

Investment Philosophy

Hourigan emphasizes the importance of partnering with individuals who possess a proven track record of success. He believes that investing in people is crucial to achieving long-term growth in the sports industry. His insights reflect a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of sports media and technology, highlighting sectors like artificial intelligence as areas ripe for investment.23

Current Initiatives

Recently, Ryan Sports Ventures has made headlines for its strategic investments in various sports franchises, including a minority stake in Black Knight Football Club. This move is part of their broader strategy to leverage their expertise in sports technology and innovation to enhance their portfolio's value.12

Hourigan's contributions to discussions about the future of sports investment underscore his commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the industry.