ENGLEWOOD • The Broncos’ new ownership wasted little time naming a new team president.

Greg Penner, owner and CEO, named long-time sports executive Damani Leech to the position Thursday morning. Leech will report directly to Penner, helping oversee all business operations of the team and more specifically, he will operate Stadium Management Company, which operates Empower Field at Mile High. Leech most recently served as the chief operating office of NFL International.

“With a championship history and heritage, the Broncos are a remarkable organization that has a special connection with its fans and community,” Leech said in a team release. “Speaking with (General Manager) George Paton during this process, it’s clear that this team is positioned to succeed on and off the field. I can’t wait to work alongside ownership, George, Coach (Nathaniel) Hackett, the players and staff to help this flagship franchise reach the next level of greatness.”

Leech comes to the Broncos with 25 years of experience as a sports executive, spending the last eight years as an executive for the NFL, helping grow the game internationally. Before his time with the NFL, he spent 17 years working in collegiate athletics for the NCAA.

“As we sought to identify a dynamic, forward-thinking and inspiring leader to guide the Broncos into this exciting new chapter, Damani stood out among several very qualified candidates,” Penner said in a team release. “There was a high degree of interest in this opportunity with the Broncos, which speaks to the reputation of this organization and Damani’s strong credentials. ... Damani is highly regarded throughout the National Football League for his leadership, strategic vision and collaborative spirit. As a former college player with executive experience at both the NFL and NCAA levels, Damani understands the value of teamwork and knows what it takes to win — on and off the field. Most importantly, he leads with integrity, empathy and respect. I’m confident Damani will help the Broncos grow across all areas of our business and make our staff, partners and fans proud of this organization.”

Leech spent nearly two decades with the NCAA, serving as the organization’s managing director of championships. He played college football at Princeton, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in public policy and international affairs. He later received a master’s degree in higher education administration from Indiana University.

Penner added in the release that both Leech and Paton will report to him, with Leech primarily focusing on business and Paton focusing on football.