TORONTO – Michael Copeland was named the new president and chief executive officer of the Toronto Argonauts on Monday.

Copeland will fill those roles when Bell Canada and Kilmer Group assume ownership of the Argos at the end of this year.

“It’s a great honour to be named as the next chief executive of the legendary Toronto Argonauts, a name that resounds across the Canadian sports landscape,” said Copeland. “There’s strong leadership and talent on the field and across the organization, and I’m eager to join with everyone in taking the Argos forward.

“We’re fully dedicated to delivering fans the greatest football experience at every level, supporting their passion for the iconic Argos brand every day as we focus on winning the Grey Cup every year.”

Chris Rudge, currently executive chairman and CEO of the team, will leave the team when his contract concludes at the end of 2015.

Copeland is the president and chief operating officer of the Canadian Football League and is responsible for all of the CFL’s business operations.