Marty Dobek, a proud Metro Detroit native, was named Executive Director of the Detroit Sports Commission (DSC) in February 2025.
Dobek previously served as Deputy Director since 2021 and joined the organization full-time in 2011. The Detroit Sports Commission is a subsidiary of Visit Detroit.
As Executive Director, he oversees all facets of the organization’s operations, including sales strategy, event bidding and hosting, board engagement, and staff leadership. Dobek also leads implementation of the DSC’s Long-Range Plan, which focuses on strengthening event funding strategies, expanding corporate and philanthropic partnerships, enhancing board leadership and engagement, and elevating Detroit’s brand visibility as a premier championship destination.
He stepped into the role during a period of significant momentum for Detroit’s sports and events landscape, building on the foundation established through more than two decades of leadership by Detroit Sports Commission founder Dave Beachnau, whose vision helped position Detroit as a nationally respected championship host city.
Dobek played a key leadership role in the historic 2024 NFL Draft, serving as the primary liaison to the NFL. The record-setting event attracted more than 775,000 attendees and generated an estimated $213.6 million in economic impact, while aligning city, state, and private-sector partners to deliver one of the most successful Drafts in league history.
Under Dobek’s leadership, the DSC continues expanding Detroit’s event portfolio across professional, collegiate, youth, adaptive, and emerging sports. He is also helping lead preparation for a strong lineup of future marquee events, including the 2027 NCAA® Men’s Final Four®, the 2028 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Midwest Regional, the 2028 Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament, and multiple future USGA championships at Oakland Hills Country Club.
Community impact remains a central focus of Dobek’s leadership. Through the DSC Living Legacy Initiative, more than $1.7 million has been reinvested into Southeast Michigan communities since 2024, with emphasis on expanding youth sports access, literacy, and opportunities that strengthen neighborhoods across the region
Dobek currently leads the organization during a historic period that includes the Detroit Sports Commission’s 25th anniversary, positioning the DSC for sustained growth while continuing to drive economic impact, elevate Detroit’s global profile, and create lasting community benefits through sport. He remains focused on strengthening partnerships, expanding Detroit’s championship event pipeline, and ensuring sport continues to serve as a catalyst for economic growth and community impact across the region.
Dobek and his wife, Anne, reside in his hometown of Allen Park, Michigan.
