Big Topics. Bold Ideas. Meaningful Connections.
Two Days That Will Inspire You All Year Long
Thought Leaders is an exclusive, invitation-only retreat designed for the most accomplished executives in the sports industry. Over two transformative days, attendees engage in high-level conversations, hear from visionary speakers, and participate in outdoor experiences that foster genuine connections and fresh perspectives.
Set in a true retreat-style environment, Thought Leaders offers a rare opportunity to step away from the everyday and dive into dynamic learning, casual networking, and personal growth. Discover why SBJ Thought Leaders is considered the most prestigious gathering in sports business.
At this year’s Thought Leaders event, you’ll have the unique opportunity to connect and collaborate with attendees from our Thought Leaders Tech program. This integrated experience is designed to foster meaningful networking and maximize the exchange of ideas among industry leaders.
ATTENDEES CAN LOOK FORWARD TO
Unique networking receptions and relationship-building activities such as golf, pickleball, canoeing, equestrian activities and more. Many of this year’s activities are being held at the National Ability Center in Park City, Utah.
Inspirational and unconventional speakers
Group discussions on common challenges
Leadership strategies
View the video below to see the experience at the 2025 Thought Leaders.
Why Retreat Week?
In today’s fast-changing sports business, leadership requires vision. SBJ Retreat Week 2026 merges Thought Leaders and Thought Leaders: Tech into one immersive experience for senior executives shaping the future of sport. As technology drives value and innovation, C-suite leaders must understand and engage with emerging tools and platforms. This retreat fosters strategic dialogue between industry and tech pioneers in a confidential, high-level setting. Executives will forge meaningful connections, explore transformative ideas, and reflect on the future of sport.
For those leading growth and change, Retreat Week isn’t just an event—it’s a strategic imperative.
Retreat Week at a Glance
At this year’s Thought Leaders event, you’ll have the unique opportunity to connect and collaborate with attendees from our Thought Leaders: Tech Retreat program. This integrated experience is designed to foster meaningful networking and maximize the exchange of ideas among industry leaders.
Pricing
*All registrations are subject to approval
Who Should Attend Thought Leaders?
The industry’s most senior-level executives.
Brands
Properties
Agencies and Service Providers
Investors
C-Suite titles
"I came last year on advice from others, and it didn't disappoint. I think this is an annual, must attend event for me."
Craig Sloan CEO Playfly Sport
"I feel at this conference I've been able to make some real connections with people, whether it's in and out of the workshops or doing some of the other activities that were planned."
Tarena Smith Vice President Major Events, Mercedes-Benz Stadium AMB Sports & Entertainment
"My time here has been incredible. It exceeded my expectations. The attendees, the speakers, everything is just top notch and it's now my favorite SBJ event for sure."
Bridget Kaye Associate Principal Populous
"Thought Leaders conference is a great event regarding the attendance and the people that are here in terms of networking and conversation around anything that's happening in the sports business. I leave with a lot more ideas than I came with, which ultimately makes it successful for me."
Kim Beauvais Executive Vice President of Human Resources and Business Operations Fox Sports
SBJ Retreat Week Sponsors
BRONZE SPONSOR
