CFO of the Year 2023: Lifetime Achievement

Veteran financial expert Paul Baniel retired this fall from the Green Bay Packers after a 37-year career in the sports and entertainment sector. Joining the Packers’ ranks in 2009, Baniel ascended to pivotal roles in finance and administration during his impressive stint with the organization. Holding credentials such as a CPA and CGMA, Baniel’s journey began with an accounting degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1983. Prior to his tenure with the Packers, Baniel made significant contributions to the Milwaukee Brewers and assumed the role of CFO at Potawatomi Hotel and Casino. His influence extended far beyond financial matters, including contributions to Lambeau Field’s renovation, Titletown’s development and his representation of the Packers at the NFL level on economic issues. “As the chair of the audit committee for the Green Bay Packers, I have enjoyed my partnership with Paul Baniel over the last 3 years,” says Rob Gilson, chair of the Packers’ audit committee. “His integrity, character, discipline and dedication to financial excellence are second to none. His strong leadership, strategic thinking and superior communication skills [have] made Paul a major contributor to the Packers success over the last 15 years.” To learn more about Baniel’s career and contributions to the Packers, read the cover story of Insight on Business magazine December 2023.