CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Melanie Lenz was named Chief Planning & Development Officer in January 2018. Melanie joined the Rays in November 2006 to oversee key strategic projects & initiatives for the team, including managing the design & construction of the Rays spring training facility in Charlotte County. During her 17 seasons with the Rays, Melanie has provided leadership across many aspects of the organization, including business forecasting, media rights and broadcasting, hospitality, and community relations, and has built critical, long-term core business partnerships. She is responsible for the team’s long-term capital projects, ballpark planning and real estate development initiatives. Prior to joining the Rays organization, Melanie was a vice president in the Real Estate Division at the New York City Economic Development Corporation from 2000-06. During this time, she directed over 50 real estate transactions and development projects within the five boroughs of New York City, resulting in millions of square feet of new development. Melanie attended the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs and received her master’s degree in urban and regional planning in 1999. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Duquesne University in 1995. Melanie serves on the board of directors for the Tampa Downtown Partnership, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership, Pinellas County Urban League and Zoo Tampa. She and her husband, Kurt, reside in St. Petersburg with their two sons.