Marcita Thompson: From Ballpark to Boardroom

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By Korey Wilson

Boston, MA — Sports have always played a significant role in Marcita Thompson’s life. Having developed a competitive spirit as a University of Arizona student-athlete, Thompson brought her passion to one of Major League Baseball’s premier clubs, The Boston Red Sox.  

“America’s Most Beloved Ballpark,” Fenway Park welcomes more than 300,000 global visitors and tourists annually, a number that has increased and quadrupled revenue under Thompson’s direction.

“In Major League Baseball, we have the highest attendance and most profitable revenue stream of all the teams that offer tours,” said Thompson. “My role is business development, marketing, international sales, and partnerships. We are currently the #1 walking tourist destination in New England.”

Thompson developed a passion in the business of sports as a student-athlete at the University of Arizona, working as an intern in the Athletics’ Department.

“I have always wanted to pursue a career in athletics and sports, so I began having meetings with people I admired, to learn and understand what it takes to be successful in the sports industry,” she said. “I was very fortunate to be at the right place at the right time, and at a point in my career where I was prepared for this opportunity. It was revealed to me that they were considering me for a position within the organization, one that would be created, as they thought my experience was unique and lent itself perfectly to a growing department.”

Within six weeks, she was promoted to Manager of Promotions and Special Events. Having held many positions within the Boston Red Sox organization, including Promotions Assistant, Director of Fenway Enterprises, and Ballpark Operations, today Thompson is Vice President of Fenway Park Tours.

As a Woman of Color in corporate America, possessing a strong work ethic, being reliable, thinking outside the box, and consistently exceeding expectations are critical in making a mark in the corporate arena. She believes that it is her responsibility to be an example of what results from the tremendous efforts of women and men of color paving the way.  

“I have a responsibility to represent African-American women by being a mentoring resource,” said Thompson. Everyone has a personal brand. It needs to be nurtured, developed, and marketed with care. If you are not proud of your brand, people will see that, and if you’re building your brand, people will take notice and respect [you].”

Marcita Thompson will serve as an Executive Speaker and lead the “Success in the Arena” session at the SOLD OUT Women of Color Leadership and Empowerment Conference hosted by State Street Corp on Friday, June 22nd, 2018.