Kevin Clayton
EVP, Chief Impact and Equity Officer, Rock Entertainment Group
Kevin Clayton is the Executive Vice President, Chief Impact and Equity Officer for Rock Entertainment Group (REG), the parent-company encompassing the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers, the NBA G League Cleveland Charge, AHL Cleveland Monsters, Rock Entertainment Sports Network and Rocket Arena. In this role, Clayton oversees the Community Impact and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) teams, Cavaliers Legends, the Cavaliers Community Foundation and handles government affairs for REG. By focusing the advancement of REG’s social impact and responsibility, Clayton has significantly impacted team member representation, workplace culture, fan engagement and community relations.
Since joining the Cavaliers in 2019, Clayton has spearheaded groundbreaking efforts that have positioned the organization as a trailblazer in the sports industry. His strategic approach to DEI has not only transformed internal team dynamics but has also significantly influenced fan engagement and community relations. Notably, Clayton had a hand in orchestrating the implementation of DEI metrics tied to executive compensation, a first in the NBA, demonstrating a commitment to accountability at the highest levels of leadership.
Clayton’s impact extends beyond the confines of REG. He had a hand in developing the strategic framework for the first pro-sports alliance with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Browns and Guardians. This collaboration aims to create more just, equitable and engaged communities through improved policing, educational access and civic participation. Additionally, Kevin leads the NBA’s DEI Alliance, which is composed of all 30 NBA teams DEI leaders.
While his accomplishments describe what he has done, Clayton’s “secret sauce” is his love for service. He believes that giving back and supporting people that need a hand is his purpose and calling. While Clayton clearly is a go-getter he is fueled by the concept of being a go-giver and servant leader.
Before joining REG, he held senior positions at Bon Secours Mercy Health, the United States Tennis Association, Russell Athletic/Spalding, Proctor & Gamble, and the American Cancer Society. At three of these corporate icons, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, he implemented groundbreaking D&I education, training and accountability systems that significantly enhanced company culture. His creation of the “Diversity Profit Center” at Russell Corporation generated substantial revenue and was recognized in the Harvard Business Review.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Clayton is actively involved in the community, serving as Chair of the Urban League of Greater Cleveland and Black Sports Professionals. He holds board positions with United Way of Greater Cleveland, and the Cleveland City Club, among others. Clayton has received numerous awards and honors, including Sports Business Journal’s DEI National Influencer, Crains Cleveland’s DEI Leader/Influencer, Bellwether Good Human Award, Savoy Magazine’s Top 50 Diversity Executives, Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio Humanitarian Award, and Uptown Professional Magazine’s Top 100 African American Executives, along with many other personal, team, and organizational recognitions.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, and Shaker Heights High graduate. Clayton is an alumnus of North Carolina Central University and Wilmington College.
Clayton will tell you that his most significant life’s accomplishment is being father of four daughters and a grandfather of three amazing grandchildren.