The Bullock College graduate will take the reins for the NHL's newest franchise, the Utah Hockey Club, in its inaugural season.
Chris Armstrong (BSM '05) has been named Director of Hockey Operations for the new team, which will make its season debut in October.
Armstrong, who has spent nearly 14 years in sports marketing and talent management, officially began his new role on June 18. His career has been marked by significant contributions to the sports industry, particularly hockey and golf.
Over the past decade, Armstrong has negotiated contracts for several hockey executives within the NHL, including Brock University graduate Kyle Dubas (BSM '07), who was hired last year as president of hockey operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
“We are excited to welcome Chris to the SEG leadership team,” Ryan Smith, owner of the Utah Hockey Club and founder of Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), said in a press release. “Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships with some of the top players, agents and executives in hockey. His unique background and diverse skill set will be invaluable in delivering the best hockey experience for our community, fans, players, coaches and front office.”
Armstrong's journey in sport began at Brock University where he earned a degree in Sports Management, and in his early career he worked as a part-time amateur scout before attending McGill University.
In 2012, Mr. Brock awarded him his second Outstanding Alumni Award and he was named one of the top 35 graduates of the past 35 years.
Prior to this appointment, Armstrong served as executive vice president of talent, innovation and strategic development at Wasserman, a Los Angeles-based sports marketing and talent management firm.
Armstrong played a key role in establishing Wasserman's hockey clinics and managing such high-profile clients as professional golfer Tony Finau.
In his new role, Armstrong will also serve as Acting Governor and work closely with SEG's ownership and senior leadership team to build a world-class organization in Utah. He will oversee both business and hockey operations, a responsibility that matches his experience in contract negotiations and managing the careers of top executives and players.
Armstrong's influence in the sports world is widely recognized: he was named to the Sports Business Journal's 2021 “40 Under 40” and in 2013 received the prestigious “Five to Watch” award as Canada's top executives under 40 in sports.
Armstrong also has a track record of philanthropy and community service, having served as chair of the Canadian board of directors for Global Citizen, an international education and advocacy organization, and serving on the boards of several athletes' foundations.
Armstrong's move to Utah came after he advised Ryan Smith on purchasing the Utah franchise, a relationship that stemmed from his representation of Finau, a Salt Lake City, Utah, native.
