Chicago Bears Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Chicago Bears have 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, people culture, stadium development, affairs, and legal.

Driven by a legacy of athletic excellence, Chicago Bears is dedicated to fostering a winning culture and delivering unparalleled fan experiences through strategic leadership and operational efficiency.

Leadership Roles at Chicago Bears

  • Strategic Executive Partner & Office of The President & Chief Executive Officer - Noor Davis
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Ted Phillips
  • Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer - Karen Murphy
  • Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer - Elizabeth Geist
  • Global Senior VP, Strategy Affairs & Chief of Staff - Tanya Dreesen
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Legal Officer, Legal & Business Affairs - Krista Whitaker
  • Noor Davis - Strategic Executive Partner & Office of The President & Chief Executive Officer

    Noor Davis, the Strategic Executive Partner & Office of The President & Chief Executive Officer at Chicago Bears, drives strategic initiatives and supports the President & Chief Executive Officer in executing the organization's vision. This role involves aligning departmental objectives with overarching business goals, ensuring operational synergy across key functions. Davis focuses on enhancing organizational effectiveness and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The strategic partnership ensures that the President & Chief Executive Officer's directives are translated into actionable plans, impacting team performance and business growth. Davis's contributions are critical in navigating complex business landscapes and optimizing resource allocation for maximum impact. This leadership position demands a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry and a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring the Chicago Bears maintain a competitive edge both on and off the field. Davis's oversight extends to critical decision-making processes, supporting the long-term sustainability and success of the franchise.

    Ted Phillips - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ted Phillips, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Chicago Bears, directs the overall strategic direction and operational management of the professional American football team. Phillips oversees all business facets, ensuring the franchise's financial health and competitive standing within the National Football League. This leadership position involves guiding departmental heads, fostering a winning culture, and enhancing fan engagement. Phillips's responsibilities include developing long-term growth strategies, managing key stakeholder relationships, and upholding the organization's legacy. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between on-field performance and off-field business operations, driving revenue generation and operational efficiency. Phillips's executive oversight is crucial for maintaining the Chicago Bears' market position and brand integrity. This role demands a deep understanding of sports management, strategic planning, and financial stewardship to navigate the complexities of professional sports. Ted Phillips's leadership is fundamental to the franchise's sustained success and its commitment to excellence.
    Ted Phillips

    Karen Murphy - Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer

    Karen Murphy, the Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Bears, spearheads the strategic development and operational oversight of the team's stadium facilities and related infrastructure. Murphy directs all aspects of stadium operations, ensuring a world-class experience for players, staff, and fans. This critical role involves managing construction projects, optimizing facility management, and enhancing the fan experience through innovative solutions. Murphy's leadership ensures that the stadium serves as a premier venue, supporting revenue generation and operational efficiency. The Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer collaborates closely with various departments to align stadium initiatives with the overall business strategy of the Chicago Bears. Karen Murphy's expertise is vital in executing large-scale development projects and maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence. This position requires a robust understanding of construction management, facility operations, and strategic planning to drive the franchise's physical infrastructure forward.
    Karen Murphy

    Elizabeth Geist - Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Elizabeth Geist, the Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer at Chicago Bears, architects the human capital strategy and cultivates a high-performance organizational culture. Geist oversees all aspects of human resources, including talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring the Chicago Bears attract and retain top talent. This role is pivotal in fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment that aligns with the team's values and strategic objectives. Geist's leadership ensures that employee well-being and professional growth are prioritized, directly impacting team morale and productivity. The Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to integrate HR initiatives with broader business goals, supporting operational excellence. Elizabeth Geist's expertise is essential in building a cohesive and motivated workforce capable of achieving the franchise's ambitious goals. This position demands a strategic approach to people management, driving engagement and ensuring the organization's human resources function supports sustained success.

    Tanya Dreesen - Global Senior VP, Strategy Affairs & Chief of Staff

    Tanya Dreesen, the Global Senior VP, Strategy Affairs & Chief of Staff at Chicago Bears, orchestrates strategic initiatives and provides executive-level support to the President & Chief Executive Officer. Dreesen manages critical affairs, ensuring alignment across various organizational functions and driving the execution of key strategic priorities. This role involves facilitating communication, coordinating cross-departmental efforts, and advising on complex business matters to enhance operational effectiveness. Dreesen's leadership ensures that strategic plans are translated into tangible outcomes, supporting the Chicago Bears' long-term vision and competitive objectives. The Global Senior VP, Strategy Affairs & Chief of Staff plays a crucial part in shaping the organization's strategic direction and operational cadence. Tanya Dreesen's contributions are essential for maintaining organizational coherence and driving forward the franchise's ambitious goals. This position demands exceptional strategic acumen and a proactive approach to managing multifaceted responsibilities.
    Krista Whitaker, the Executive Vice President & Chief Legal Officer, Legal & Business Affairs at Chicago Bears, directs all legal operations and business affairs for the organization. Whitaker provides expert counsel on a wide range of legal matters, including contracts, compliance, intellectual property, and litigation, safeguarding the franchise's interests. This role is fundamental in ensuring that all business activities adhere to legal standards and ethical practices, supporting operational integrity. Whitaker's leadership ensures robust legal frameworks are in place to facilitate strategic growth and mitigate risk. The Executive Vice President & Chief Legal Officer, Legal & Business Affairs collaborates with executive leadership to navigate complex legal challenges and structure significant business transactions. Krista Whitaker's expertise is critical in protecting the Chicago Bears' assets and reputation. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of sports law and corporate governance to support the franchise's sustained success and compliance.
    Krista Whitaker

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Chicago Bears Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Chicago Bears?
    Chicago Bears is led by Noor Davis (Strategic Executive Partner & Office of The President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Ted Phillips (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Karen Murphy (Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Chicago Bears’s executive team?
    The executive team of Chicago Bears includes leaders such as Noor Davis (Strategic Executive Partner & Office of The President & Chief Executive Officer), Ted Phillips (President & Chief Executive Officer), Karen Murphy (Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Chicago Bears have?
    Chicago Bears has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Chicago Bears’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Chicago Bears includes roles such as Strategic Executive Partner & Office of The President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer, Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer, Global Senior VP, Strategy Affairs & Chief of Staff.