The Boston Celtics named Rich Gotham as president on Wednesday, a role most recently held by legendary coach and team icon Arnold “Red” Auerbach, who died in October.

“Red’s real title was and always will be ‘Coach’ Auerbach to us,” Gotham said in a written statement. “My role is the more conventional role of team President, the business role. However, as a guy who grew up here, loving the Celtics, the significance of the title isn’t lost on me and I couldn’t be more proud and honored.”

Gotham was promoted from Chief Operating Officer and will report to team CEO and managing partner Wyc Grousbeck. As president, Gotham will focus on the team’s business operations, while Danny Ainge remains executive director of basketball operations and will make decisions on player moves.

“I am looking forward to working with Rich and the ownership group in leading the Celtics organization into the future,” Ainge said in news release.

Gotham lives in Medfield and is an alumnus of Providence College.

AP-ES-04-18-07 1649EDT