This season was among the best for the St. Louis Blues in recent franchise history. They managed to win their first division title in 12 years and win their first playoff series in 10 seasons. The overcame preseason predictions and win the division after firing Dallas Payne in November. And one of the top front office personnel is stepping down after staying on board during a transition period in ownership.
“With the ownership situation resolved here in St. Louis and on very solid footing with Tom Stillman and his group, I feel comfortable now going back home knowing that the organization has transitioned smoothly and professionally,” Mike McCarthy said in a statement. “I am now able with a clear conscience to pursue other interests and should have something to announce shortly in that regard.
“St. Louis is an amazing place to work and live, and I’ve especially understood that over the past two full seasons. The Blues, and of course Blues fans, are a major reason why I will always look back on my time here with great fondness. I thank my front office colleagues for making this journey a truly enriching professional experience.”
Mike McCarthy has been the CEO of St. Louis Blues Enterprises, and was a founding partner of the group that purchased the Blues and Scottrade Center in June of 2006. McCarthy was from Connecticut and moved to St. Louis full time in September of 2010 to assume the role of CEO of the Blues. His responsibilities primarily focused on the business side of the Blues and their home building Scottrade Center. He and team president John Davidson were among the remaining pieces from the previous ownership group under Dave Chicketts to Tom Stillman. McCarthy is leaving to pursue other career interests and it is unknown what Davidson will do. Davidson just completed the first of a four-season contract extension that has a clause to allow him to opt-out should there be a change in ownership like what recently happened.
Blues blog In The Slot said a replacement has not been announced, but when the position is filled it would only fuel speculation that legendary player Brett Hull could join the organization in a front office capacity. He currently works with the Dallas Stars in a front office role.
