the professional - at a glance
Des Hague is an acclaimed executive leader known for his exceptional ability to lead global brands and deliver outstanding results. With a proven track record in private equity ventures, Hague has successfully returned over half a billion dollars to shareholders. As the co-founder of Hague Enterprises LLC, since its 2015 inception, he has strategically invested and played pivotal roles on over 20 company boards.
Currently, Hague advises start-ups, not-for-profit organizations, and several private equity firms specializing in turnarounds, buyouts, and industry consolidations. Most recently, Hague was Co-Founder and served as CEO of nebula9 Spirits, launching a premium ready-to-drink vodka-based cocktail. Prior to this role, Hague served as the President and CEO of VIPER EA, a renowned leader in retail profit optimization. During his three-year tenure, he achieved a remarkable feat by increasing the company's enterprise value to $100 million, representing a 20x growth.
From 2009 to 2014, Hague held the prestigious position of CEO of Centerplate, Inc. Under his visionary leadership, the company transformed into North America’s largest hospitality business, operating in sports, convention centers, and entertainment venues across over 40 US states, Canada, and Europe, with an extensive workforce of more than 40,000 employees. The company was eventually sold to Olympus Partners, yielding Kohlberg, the equity owner, their largest return in company history at the time of the transaction.
Hague’s dedication and hard work propelled Centerplate to unparalleled heights, earning numerous awards and recognitions, including the coveted “Best Food and Beverage” award by Convene Magazine and being hailed as the “No. 1 NFL Experience” by Stadium Journey.
Prior to his tenure at Centerplate, Hague had the privilege of working with iconic brands such as Safeway, IHOP, 7-Eleven, Maytag, PepsiCo, and Whitbread. Throughout his illustrious career, Hague attributes his success to maintaining a relentless “never-stop-learning” mentality.
out of office
When he’s not leading successful ventures and driving companies to new heights, Des can be found embracing an active lifestyle. Whether he’s pushing his limits in Spartan races, lifting weights, or exploring the great outdoors through hiking, Des is always on the move. His passion for staying physically fit is matched by his love for mental challenges, as he is an avid reader who enjoys diving into a good book.
Des also enjoys unwinding with a good cigar, appreciating the simple pleasure it brings in his downtime. Evenings often find him relaxing with his wife, Carol, as they enjoy movies and TV shows on the big screen, making the most of their time together. Beyond these pursuits, Des treasures the moments he spends with his sons, their spouses, and his three grandchildren, finding joy in family gatherings and the time they share.
Whether through physical activity, intellectual pursuits, or simple pleasures, Des brings the same energy and dedication to his personal life that he does to his professional endeavors.
