Craig Reynolds announced as CEO of Saskatchewan Roughriders

Craig Reynolds willbe the SaskatchewanRoughriders' next president and CEO.

The 39-year-old from Foam Lake, Sask., succeeds Jim Hopson, who served in the role since 2005.

During Hopson's tenure, the team won two Grey Cups.

"To be given this incredible opportunity to lead one of the most iconic franchises in pro sports is truly a dream come true," Reynolds said.

Reynolds hasbeen the Riders' chief financial officer and senior vice-president.He beat out more than170applicants. He has been at the head of some major projects for the club. Most notable among them is the transition into a new stadium, set for completion in 2017.

This is a $40 million dollar business and it requires strong business leadership- Craig Reynolds, new Roughriders' President & CEO

"Craig certainly won out in a lot of the categories, said Riders board chair Wayne Morsky."His experience in the organization up to date, the projects that he's led were very instrumental in the decision that was made."

Business Mind

In addition to leading major projects, Reynolds has also helped manage the club's salary cap. An accountant by trade, Reynolds said knowing the business side of the team better than anyone is a major asset.

"This is a $40 million dollar business and it requires strong business leadership, Reynolds said."I think if you look across pro sports it's actually not the norm to have your president and CEOwith playing experience. It's not a requirement in my mind."

Reynolds will begin his new job March 1.

Terms and length of his contract have not been revealed.