John Mara stands as a pivotal figure in the National Football League, currently serving his 34th season with the New York Giants. As the President and Chief Executive Officer of this storied franchise, John Mara embodies a legacy of leadership, stepping into the presidency upon the passing of his father, the iconic Wellington Mara, in 2005. His journey with the Giants began in 1991 when he joined as General Counsel, subsequently adding Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer to his titles, marking the start of a remarkable ascent within the organization.
Mara’s influence extends far beyond the Giants, positioning him as one of the NFL’s most respected and prominent owners. He holds the esteemed position of chairman of the league’s Management Council Executive Committee, a role that placed him at the forefront of negotiating the critical 2011 and 2020 collective bargaining agreements with the NFL Players Association. His commitment to the league’s betterment is further demonstrated through his extensive service on numerous NFL committees. Notably, he has dedicated 24 years to the Competition Committee, a body that meticulously examines all facets of the game and proposes essential rule and policy adjustments to NFL clubs. Beyond competition, Mara’s expertise is sought across a spectrum of crucial areas, as evidenced by his active participation in the NFL’s Health and Safety, Compensation, Workplace Diversity, and Legalized Sports Betting committees.
The Mara name is synonymous with the Giants and the NFL itself. John Mara’s deep-rooted connection to the franchise is lifelong, tracing back to its founding in 1925 by his grandfather, Tim Mara. His father, Wellington Mara, is revered as one of the most impactful, respected, and beloved executives in the history of the NFL. The contributions of both Tim and Wellington Mara are eternally recognized in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, solidifying the family’s indelible mark on the sport.
Since John Mara officially joined the Giants organization, the team has experienced a period of sustained success. Under his leadership, the Giants have achieved 11 playoff appearances, secured five NFC East titles, and competed in three Super Bowls, triumphing in two of these championship contests. This era of achievement underscores Mara’s effective stewardship and commitment to maintaining the Giants’ competitive edge.
John Mara, alongside Steve Tisch, Jonathan Tisch, and Jets owner Woody Johnson, played a crucial role in a successful bid to bring Super Bowl XLVIII to MetLife Stadium. This landmark event saw Seattle facing Denver on February 2, 2014, and marked the first Super Bowl held in a cold-weather, outdoor venue. The game and the surrounding week proved to be a resounding success. Building on this achievement, Mara was also instrumental in securing MetLife Stadium as a host venue for the 2026 World Cup, including the prestigious final match scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Born in New York City on December 1, 1954, John Mara’s New York roots run deep. He grew up in Westchester County, in White Plains, and is a graduate of Iona Prep High School in New Rochelle. He pursued higher education at Boston College, earning a B.S. degree in marketing with Cum Laude honors in 1976. Furthering his academic pursuits, Mara obtained a law degree from Fordham University in 1979. Prior to his career with the Giants, he honed his legal skills in labor and employment law and litigation at two Manhattan-based firms.
Beyond his professional commitments, John Mara dedicates his time and resources to several important causes. He serves on the Board of Directors of Saint Vincent’s Hospital in Harrison, N.Y., Boys Hope Girls Hope of New York, and the Newark, N.J. Covenant House Action Research Think Tank (CHART), an organization focused on combating human trafficking.
John Mara is married to Denise Walter, and together they have a large and loving family, including five children and 14 grandchildren. His dedication to family, community, and the New York Giants underscores his enduring commitment to leadership both on and off the field.
