Blues name Zimmerman CEO of business operations

The St. Louis Blues have appointed Chris Zimmerman as president and CEO of business operations, the team announced Monday.

Zimmerman, 54, was president, CEO and alternate governor of the Vancouver Canucks from 2006 to 2009. He also served on the NHL’s Business Advisory Council during that time.

"Chris has an exceptional record of building fan and consumer engagement for a diverse set of sports brands," Blues chairman Tom Stillman said in a statement. "He is known in the sports industry as a creative marketer who develops innovative partnerships that drive business results. Chris has a passion for the game of hockey and a commitment to building great organizations, and I am confident he will drive our business forward as we continue to pursue a Stanley Cup for St. Louis."

Prior to working for the Canucks, Zimmerman spent 11 years with Nike, including 2003-2006 as president and CEO of Nike Bauer Hockey. In addition to running his own consulting business, he has been president of Easton Sports and a member of the Los Angeles Kings' Business Advisory Group over the past four years.