The Chicago Bears have hired Big Ten commissioner Kevin Warren as their new president/CEO.
Warren will replace Ted Phillips, who’s retiring after nearly 40 years with the Bears. Phillips has served as president/CEO since 1999.
Warren is the fifth president in the franchise’s 103-year history, where he follows in the footsteps of George Halas, George “Mugs” Halas Jr., Michael McCaskey and Phillips. Warren is also the Bears’ first Black president in history.
The Bears will introduce Warren as the new president/CEO in a press conference Tuesday at Noon CT.
Here’s what Bears chairman George McCaskey, GM Ryan Poles, Phillips and Warren himself had to say following the official announcement:
New president/CEO Kevin Warren
“I am honored and recognize the responsibility bestowed upon me to lead the Chicago Bears during this exciting and pivotal time for the franchise. I look forward to building on the rich tradition that started with George Halas and connecting with the unique and vibrant fanbase in Chicago. I join the Chicago Bears with gratitude and drive to carry out and build upon the legacy and spirit of this founding franchise and my predecessors. This is a franchise that is respected in all of professional sports, and I am humbled to be selected as the next President & CEO of the Chicago Bears. I sincerely thank Virginia McCaskey, George McCaskey, the McCaskey family, Ted Phillips and the search team, for the responsibility and trust placed in me to lead the Chicago Bears and deliver championships to Chicago.”
Chairman George McCaskey
“Kevin is a man of integrity, respect and excellence, all of which are critical core values of the Chicago Bears, and we welcome his perspective and diverse thought to lead this storied organization. He is a proven leader who has many times stepped outside of his comfort zone to challenge status quo for unconventional growth and prosperity. In this role, Warren will serve in the primary leadership position of the franchise to help bring the next Super Bowl championship trophy home to Bears fans.”
GM Ryan Poles
“Kevin is going to be a tremendous resource and I am excited to get started with him. In my time spent with him during the interview process, it quickly became apparent his resumé and business acumen will be a powerful asset to helping improve our organization and ultimately reach our goal to be a championship organization.”
Current president/CEO Ted Phillips
“It was important to ensure the Bears had the right leader in place before I retired. Kevin will do an excellent job of bringing the best out of the great people at Halas Hall and continue the evolution of our proud franchise.”
