Bills promote Brandon to President/CEO
The Buffalo Bills announced Tuesday that they promoted Russ Brandon to President and Chief Executive Officer.
Brandon, who has been getting more power from 94-year-old owner Ralph Wilson in recent years, now has full authority of the team.
"Russ Brandon has done a tremendous job in his 16 years with our organization and is very highly respected throughout the National Football League," Wilson said in a statement. "He has proven to be extremely successful with each new level of responsibility he has been given and has earned this opportunity. Russ is a proven leader and he will now have full authority over the entire Buffalo Bills operation. I have granted him full autonomy to run the organization as he feels is best."
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell appointed Brandon to the league's Business Ventures Committee in 2011. Brandon is responsible for overseeing various businesses of the league, including consumer products, sponsorship and marketing.
"Russ Brandon is a dynamic, forward-thinking leader," Goodell said in a statement. "He is a proven executive with extensive experience in the operation of the Bills. He is committed to the Buffalo region and understands the dynamics of the NFL. Ralph Wilson's decision is a positive step to enhance the stability of the franchise."
The team is also retaining general manager Buddy Nix, according to ESPN. While Nix is keeping his job, a transition will reportedly be made at some point to Doug Whaley, the assistant general manager and director of player personnel.
A shakeup was rumored after the Bills had their eighth straight losing season, finishing 6-10. The team did fire coach Chan Gailey on Monday.
Nix gave Gailey a vote of confidence in November but the team lost seven of its final 10 games.
Buffalo has missed the playoffs 13 straight years, the longest active streak in the league.
"These past 13 years have been very difficult on our fans and we have not produced the type of winning team that they deserve," Wilson said. "It has been frustrating for our organization and for me as well. We want our team to be one that our fans are proud of. I believe that Russ has the unique abilities to assemble and lead the talent we will need to get the job done."
