The Edmonton Eskimos have named Chris Presson as the club’s new president and CEO. His term will begin on Sept. 1, 2019.
Presson joins the Green and Gold after spending the past five years as president of the Arizona Rattlers in the Indoor Football League. At the same time, he served as president of the Northern Arizona Suns – the development team for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, launched by Presson in 2016.
The native of Catoosa, Oklahoma led the Rattlers to three consecutive Franchise of the Year awards in 2017 through 2019.
“Chris’ background and experience stood out among the very talented candidates and it became clear to us that he was the right person to lead the Eskimos. We could not be happier to have him join our organization,” says Eskimos Board Chair Janice Agrios.
“A thank you to the Eskimos staff and, in particular, Eskimos Vice President of Finance and Business Administration Mandy Johnston for serving as interim president. We knew the club was in good hands, allowing us to take the time needed to ensure we found the right fit.”
Presson has almost 30 years of experience in sports management, including football, basketball hockey and baseball. He was a part of four championship teams in three sports as an executive:
“I’m honoured to lead such a great organization in such a great city, within such a tradition-rich league. An opportunity like this does not come along very often and I recognize that. My family and I are looking forward to contributing to the community and embracing the Eskimo Way,” says Presson.
“Throughout the interview process, it became clear we shared a common vision that includes hard work, the understanding of community and the drive to succeed on and off the field.”
With community service as a core value, Presson served as a board member for the Grand Canyon University Colangelo College of Business (Sports Advisory Board), the Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Ronald McDonald House and the YMCA.
Presson also held a seat on the Indoor Football League’s Executive Committee and the Phoenix Suns Culture Committee. He is a past chair of the Indoor Football League Expansion Committee.
Professional Experience:
Education:
Presson attended Oklahoma State University earning a degree in journalism.
Personal:
He and wife Tracy have been married 26 years and have three daughters: Lily (18), Ryan (15) and Lucy (14). Lily will be a freshman at Arizona State University this fall.