Francis stepping down as Kraken President — The Fourth Period
The Seattle Kraken and team president Ron Francis have mutually agreed that Francis will step down from his position at the conclusion of the regular-season.
Francis, 63, became the club’s first GM in July 2019, consulting on the franchise’s Kraken name, its practice facility and AHL affiliate in Coachella Valley, hired the team’s initial coach Dave Hakstol, and selected the inaugural roster at the July 2021 NHL Expansion Draft.
Kraken made the playoffs their second season and then Francis last April was promoted to President of Hockey Operations while assistant GM Jason Botterill became GM.
“Ron and I agreed that this is the right moment to make a thoughtful transition for both Ron and the organization, and move in a new direction,” Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke said in a release. “From a small office in Lower Queen Anne to the 32nd NHL franchise, Ron’s leadership and vision were instrumental in building this franchise from the ground up. Under his stewardship, we reached the playoffs in our second season, and he leaves behind a strong foundation of draft picks and promising prospects that will continue to shape the future of the team. We are grateful for his dedication and professionalism, and we wish Ron and his family the very best.”
Botterill, 49, will lead hockey operations as the team’s Executive Vice President and GM.
Francis leaves the team after five NHL seasons, the highlight being its 100-point, second year campaign in 2022-23 and a first-round upset of the defending Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche in seven games.
“It has been an honor to help launch and lead the Seattle Kraken over the past seven years,” Francis said. “I am proud of the culture we built, the people we brought together, and the milestones we achieved, including our historic first playoff run. I want to thank our entire ownership group, everyone throughout the organization, and our incredible fans for their unwavering support. This organization has a bright future, and I’m grateful to have been part of its beginning.”
