Chicago Bears Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Chicago Bears has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, legal, human resources, and stadium development.

Driven by a legacy of competition, Chicago Bears is dedicated to professional American football excellence, fostering a winning culture, and engaging a passionate fanbase through impactful community initiatives and on-field performance.

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
  • Global Senior VP, Strategy Affairs & Chief of Staff - Tanya Dreesen
  • Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer - Elizabeth Geist
  • 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, directs strategic initiatives and provides executive support to the President and CEO. This role involves aligning departmental objectives with the overarching vision for the franchise's future success. Davis collaborates with senior leadership to refine operational strategies and enhance organizational efficiency across all business units. The focus remains on driving innovation and ensuring seamless execution of key projects that support the team's competitive goals and business growth. Davis's oversight extends to critical decision-making processes, ensuring alignment with the organization's long-term strategic roadmap and market positioning within the National Football League. This leadership function is pivotal in translating high-level corporate strategy into actionable plans for the Chicago Bears.

    Ted Phillips - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ted Phillips, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Chicago Bears, steers the overall strategic direction and operational management of the professional American football franchise. Phillips directs all aspects of the business, ensuring the team's competitive performance and financial health within the National Football League. This leadership position involves cultivating a winning culture, overseeing player personnel decisions, and managing relationships with league officials and stakeholders. Phillips drives initiatives aimed at enhancing fan engagement and expanding the team's market presence. The executive's responsibilities encompass financial oversight, strategic planning, and ensuring the organization upholds its legacy and commitment to excellence. Ted Phillips is central to defining the franchise's long-term vision and its impact on the sport and the community.
    Ted Phillips

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

    Karen Murphy, the Executive VP, Stadium Development & Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Bears, directs the operational framework and oversees the critical development of the team's stadium facilities. Murphy manages the day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all departments of the professional football franchise. This leadership role is instrumental in the strategic planning and execution of stadium projects, from conception through completion, impacting fan experience and operational capacity. Murphy collaborates with internal teams and external partners to drive project milestones and maintain budget integrity. The executive's responsibilities extend to optimizing resource allocation and implementing best practices in operational management. Karen Murphy ensures the Chicago Bears' infrastructure supports both current needs and future growth ambitions.
    Karen Murphy

    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 planning and operational execution across the organization. Dreesen ensures alignment between departmental goals and the overarching business objectives of the professional football team. This role involves managing key projects, facilitating cross-functional collaboration, and advising senior leadership on critical strategic decisions. Dreesen's purview includes developing and implementing initiatives that enhance the team's competitive edge and business operations. The executive's focus is on driving efficiency, fostering innovation, and supporting the President and CEO in achieving the franchise's mission. Tanya Dreesen plays a vital part in translating strategic vision into tangible results for the Chicago Bears.

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

    Elizabeth Geist, the Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer at Chicago Bears, leads all human capital strategies and cultivates the organizational culture. Geist oversees talent acquisition, employee development, and retention programs designed to support the professional football team's objectives. This executive role focuses on building a high-performing workforce and fostering an inclusive environment that aligns with the franchise's values. Geist directs initiatives related to employee engagement, compensation, and benefits, ensuring the Chicago Bears attract and retain top talent. The executive's strategic input is crucial for shaping the employee experience and supporting the overall mission of the organization. Elizabeth Geist is dedicated to empowering the people who drive the team's success.
    Krista Whitaker, the Executive Vice President & Chief Legal Officer, Legal & Business Affairs at Chicago Bears, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all business affairs for the professional football franchise. Whitaker manages the legal aspects of contracts, compliance, and risk mitigation, ensuring adherence to league regulations and corporate governance standards. This executive role involves advising on strategic business decisions, negotiating key agreements, and protecting the organization's interests. Whitaker's responsibilities extend to managing intellectual property and overseeing all legal matters impacting the team's operations and growth. Krista Whitaker plays a critical role in safeguarding the Chicago Bears' legal standing and facilitating sound business development.
    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, Global Senior VP, Strategy Affairs & Chief of Staff, Executive VP, People Culture & Chief Human Resources Officer.