"Tom's distinguished career in sports and his previous senior executive roles with two other Canadian NHL clubs will be invaluable as we continue our efforts to build an organization that will prepare us for the future and the exciting opportunities which lie ahead," said Senators owner Eugene Melnyk.
"With this being Canada's 150th, and Ottawa the capital of our nation, the Sens 25th anniversary and the prospect of a new home downtown, this is an extraordinary opportunity," said Anselmi. "It's always a privilege to work in the sport we all love, so I want to express my sincere thanks to Mr. Melnyk for the opportunity to lead an organization that is so integral to the National Hockey League and the National Capital Region and so important to our passionate fans."
"With today's appointment of Tom, I also want to take this opportunity to personally thank Cyril Leeder for his many significant contributions to our hockey club and our community over the past 25 years including playing a critical role in bringing the modern-era Senators to Ottawa," said Melnyk.
Bio on Tom Anselmi
Tom Anselmi is a recognized senior business leader in Canada and an accomplished sports and entertainment executive. A passionate leader of people, Anselmi most recently worked for Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) where he was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 1999 and President in 2012. He originally joined MLSE in 1996 and was responsible for the overall development of the Air Canada Centre. He was a key member of the original team that launched MLSE transforming it into one of the world's most admired sports and entertainment organizations.
Prior to his role at MLSE, Anselmi was also Vice-President and General Manager of arena operations for Orca Bay Sports and Entertainment (now Canucks Sports & Entertainment) in Vancouver. Anselmi received an Engineering Degree from the University of Saskatchewan after graduating from Ryerson University where he is currently a distinguished visiting professor. He is a recognized community leader and is a member of the board of Canada's Walk of Fame, the NHL Alumni Association, University of Saskatchewan Huskie Athletics and the Huntsville Hospital Foundation. He also led the development of MLSE's Team Up Foundation. Anselmi is also a passionate supporter of Canada's military and a member of Canada Company. He made six goodwill trips to Afghanistan and the Middle East accompanying NHL Alumni and other entertainers to visit Canadian troops situated in the region. In 2011, Tom received the CDS commendation from Canada's Chief of the Defence Staff, which is the highest military honour a civilian can receive.
A more detailed bio on Tom Anselmi is available here:
http://ottsens.com/2jeWcIJ
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