Russ Brandon has resigned from his post as managing partner and president of Pegula Sports and Entertainment, the entity that owns the Buffalo Bills.
Backed by Terry and Kim Pegula, Pegula Sports and Entertainment owns and operates several teams, including the Bills, NHL’s Buffalo Sabres, the AHL’s Rochester Americans, and the National Lacrosse League’s Buffalo Bandits. According to The Buffalo News, Brandon’s resignation came after “an internal investigation into Brandon’s workplace behavior and allegations of personal misconduct” was conducted by Pegula Sports and Entertainment.
Kim Pegula is now stepping into the role of president. More from The Buffalo News:
Kim Pegula on Friday informed Brandon an internal investigation was being conducted. Two sources with knowledge of the investigation said it was triggered by allegations of inappropriate relationships with female employees.
When confronted by Kim Pegula, the sources said, Brandon denied any such relationships, but the investigation indicated he was deceitful about that and other job-related issues that were uncovered.
Both Brandon and the Pegulas issued statements over the matter, per The Buffalo News:
“I have been contemplating transitioning out of my role for some time,” Brandon said in a written statement. “My goal when the Pegulas purchased the franchise was to reach 20 years with the Bills.” Brandon said he reached that goal in November.
The Pegulas also issued a statement late Tuesday afternoon noting that their “focus remains on building championship teams on and off the field for our fans and community.”
Brandon is perhaps best known for his ties to the Bills. He began working with the club as its executive director of business development in 1997, and over time rose to the position of president and CEO, with that appointment announced in 2013. He remained with the Bills after Pegula Sports and Entertainment purchased the team in 2014, and was named the president of the Sabres in 2015.
Image courtesy Buffalo Bills.