The Chicago Red Stars today announced the following changes to the Board of Directors and front office to further the club’s efforts to reorganize leadership.
Kim Vender Moffat will now serve as the Chairwoman on the Board of Directors. The life-long Chicagoan joined the Red Stars ownership team in 2021 and the Board earlier this year and will work with the Board of Directors to provide support for players and staff as the organization moves forward.
Chief Business Officer, Vicky Lynch, has resigned and the Board has named Mike Ernst as Interim Chief Business Officer, effective immediately. Ernst has been working with the Red Stars in an advisory role since July of this year. As Interim Chief Business Officer, Ernst will execute on behalf of the board a change management plan to help build both a better club and a future where both players and staff work in a safe and supportive environment for everyone. He will assist in planning for the 2023 season and be responsible for the business operations of the Red Stars. Ernst most recently served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Revenue at the Chicago Fire FC where he worked for 14 years.
“I am excited to get to work on behalf of the Chicago Red Stars organization in this role,” said Ernst. “I recognize that this is a challenging time, but it is also a time for opportunity to work together in concert with the board, team and front office staff to build a club that everyone can be proud of.
Vender Moffat said the club needs a steady hand to add stability during this time of transition and Ernst brings valuable experience as a respected leader who has a reputation of collaboration, transparency and team building throughout his career.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to welcome someone with Mike’s experience, skill set and leadership at this moment in time to the Chicago Red Stars,” said Chicago Red Stars Board Chair, Kim Vender Moffat. “This is a time of transition for the organization and the Board is committed to building a culture where everyone from volunteers to players and front office staff feel respected and supported for the work and contributions they make on behalf of the club. We will work closely with Mike to put this commitment into action.”