Russ Brandon showed up at First Niagara Center on Monday wearing a Buffalo Sabres tie and Buffalo Bills socks.
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Brandon has worked with the Buffalo Bills since 1997 in multiple capacities, including director of non-football operations and CEO. In a press release, the Sabres said Black mutually agreed to part ways with the organization.
In truth, Brandon is a well-respected member of the business community and the driving force behind the Bills’ regionalization efforts over the past decade, which helped to keep the team viable and thriving in one of the NFL’s smallest media markets. “Now is an appropriate time to give him additional responsibilities with the Sabres”.
The shake-up comes as a significant surprise, as Black had held the role since the Pegulas purchased the Sabres in February 2011. He played a big part in the Bills in Toronto series, much to the chagrin of many Bills fans.
A news release from the Sabres says the Pegula’s have been impressed with Brandon since purchasing the Bills.
With the hiring of Brandon, Buffalo Sabres general manager Tim Murray will continue in his position, overseeing hockey operations for the organization. “It’s a great day”, he said.
It took Kim and Terry Pegula nine months to decide that he wanted Russ Brandon running both of the pro sports franchises that he owns.
“There’s been a lot of reflection going through my mind and people, I would not be here if it wasn’t for my staffs, I’m overwhelmed”.
The dual role is not unique to Buffalo. Along similar lines, Bills GM Doug Whaley and head coach Rex Ryan also report directly to the Pegulas.
“Great. Now 15 more years of the Sabres not making the playoffs”, Ken writes on Facebook.
The Sabres are in the midst of a top-to-bottom transformation after finishing last in each of the past two seasons.
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The Pegulas added they are grateful to Black “for all he has done for the Sabres organization and wish him much success in his future endeavors”.
