Oilers appoint Nicholson as new Chief Executive Officer

The Edmonton Oilers surprised the world on Saturday by winning the NHL lottery and earning the right to select first overall at the upcoming Entry Draft. 

On Tuesday, they had more big news to announce as the team appointed Bob Nicholson to Chief Executive Officer of Oilers Entertainment Group, effective immediately.

"Since joining OEG, Bob has devoted his time to assessing all aspects of the organization," said Oilers Chairman Daryl Katz. "Going forward, he will have clear responsibility for OEG’s growing sports and entertainment business, and all the support and latitude he needs from me to lead the Oilers back to being a Stanley Cup contender. Bob is the ideal person to lead the organization forward. He is a bold thinker, a strong consensus builder and a very fine individual."

Nicholson expressed his excitement about the new opportunity.

"Daryl hired me to build a winning organization. We have a lot of work to do, but we know what we need to do to get there," Nicholson said. "We have great people in this organization and we are firmly committed to rewarding our fans for their extraordinary patience and support. It is going to be an exciting year for our organization and the city in the lead up to the opening of Rogers Place."

Nicholson, the former president and CEO of Hockey Canada, joined the Oilers as a vice-chair in 2014 and will take over responsibilities including all aspects of business and hockey operations for the franchise.