The Ottawa Senators have fired President and CEO Roy Mlakar, creating an executive team to lead the struggling hockey club.
Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk informed Mlakar of the decision on Monday morning. Mlakar will leave his post when his contract expires on June 30.
"Roy has much to be proud of and I am grateful to have worked alongside one of North America's most accomplished sport executives. I know all of our fans will join me in thanking Roy for his many, many contributions to our community and our Senators organization," Melnyk said in a prepared statement.
Melnyk said Mlakar's constant support for many of Ottawa's charitable organizations contributed greatly to the hockey club and its relationship with the Ottawa community.
Now, Melnyk says an executive leadership team will take the reigns to lead the Ottawa Senators to victory.
Heading that team is Cyril Leeder, who has been promoted as president of the Ottawa Senators and Senators Sports and Entertainment.
He will be joined by Erin Crowe, who will serve as executive vice-president and chief financial officer. Bryan Murray will continue working as the team's general manager and will add executive vice-president duties to his job description. All of the appointments will take effect July 1.
Melnyk said bringing the Stanley Cup back to Ottawa remains his top priority.
Mlakar's firing comes as the Sens failed to make a strong showing in the standings since their appearance in the 2007 Stanley Cup finals.
Mlakar served 13 years in the dual role as president and chief executive officer of the Ottawa Senators since June 3, 1996.
Mlakar previously served as chief operating officer of the Pittsburgh Penguins and president of the Los Angeles Kings before joining the Senators.
He has also worked with teams in the American Hockey League, the NBA and Major League Baseball.
