Fire president Dave Greeley stepping down

Nearly two years after giving him control of the marketing and business operations of the club, the Chicago Fire has announced that team president Dave Greeley will be stepping down effective Aug. 31.

The search for the club's fourth team president since its inaugural season in 1998 will begin immediately, according to a statement released by the team.

Greely, who replaced John Guppy in 2008, said he will pursue other opportunities and will remain involved with the club as an advisor until the end of the season. Guppy was the team's second president, replacing Peter Wilt in 2005.

During the search, Javier Leon, managing director of Andell Sports Group, will assume the day-to-day management responsibilities of the club. Mike Humes will continue in his role as the club's Chief Operating Officer during the transition. Leon also managed the club after it split with Guppy in April 2005 until Greeley was hired in August of that year.

"Dave has played a key role with the Fire. We're a more professional and better organization as a result of his contributions," said Leon. "We're pleased that we'll have Dave's counsel and services through this transitional period."

Fire owner Andrew Hauptman said he was "grateful" to Greeley for helping to rebuild the club's business infrastructure.

"He brought professionalism and passion to this club," Hauptman said. "We wish him all the best as he pursues new endeavors."

Greeley said being a part of the Fire has been exciting.

"I am most proud of the team of professionals we have assembled and all of their accomplishments," Greeley said. "With this first-rate crew in place, I can now focus on some other opportunities and interests I would like to consider."