Kyle Okposo has embarked on a new chapter in his professional journey, taking on the role of business development and player engagement adviser with the NHL Players’ Association. The association announced several new appointments, including Okposo’s, along with Steve Scebelo as chief commercial officer and Stephanie Maniago as communications and media relations manager.
After a fulfilling 17-year career in the NHL and a triumphant Stanley Cup victory with the Florida Panthers, Okposo decided to retire in September. His involvement with the players’ association dates back to his integral role in a 2022 search committee tasked with finding a new executive director. That search concluded in February 2023, selecting U.S. Secretary of Labor and former Boston Mayor Marty Walsh for the position.
In a recent phone conversation, Okposo shared his motivations for staying connected to the sport he loves. “The game has been a pivotal part of my adult life, and I wanted to remain engaged with it,” he expressed. “I believe this is the perfect path for me to continue my journey in the sport.”
Throughout his career, from 2008 to 2024, the 37-year-old Okposo played over 1,000 games for teams such as the New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres, and the Panthers. His interest in taking on a union role was piqued during the search for the executive director, a process that led to a positive rapport with Walsh during the 4 Nations Face-Off in February.
Okposo looks forward to learning from Walsh, commenting on his short yet impactful tenure with the association. “We have ambitious plans to drive the PA forward, and Marty is certainly the right leader for it,” he noted. Okposo intends to explore his new position, emphasizing the flexibility needed to navigate his role under the guidance of Walsh and assistant Ron Hainsey. His firsthand experience and standing among peers are expected to become valuable assets for the association.
On his vision for engagement, Okposo shared, “Being newly retired, I maintain strong relationships with many players, which I believe will foster enthusiasm and connectivity within the union. Speaking to them with the same candidness as in a locker room setting will be invaluable to the PA.”
Joining Okposo in this new era for the association is Steve Scebelo, who transitions from his sports and licensing consulting firm. Previously, Scebelo spent upwards of a decade with the NFLPA, culminating in his role as president of its licensing program, NFL Players Inc.
Discussing potential collaborations, Scebelo noted, “Our previous initiatives at the NFLPA offer parallels here. There’s potential for the NHLPA to engage with emerging companies, possibly those entwined with hockey’s culture, presenting growth opportunities for both the association and these businesses.”