January 24, 2017

Jim Barker Relieved as Argos GM

Toronto Argonauts General Manager Jim Barker before the game against the Montreal Alouettes at BMO Field in Toronto, ON. Monday, July 25, 2016. (Photo: Johany Jutras)

TORONTO, ON – After a comprehensive review of its football operations, the Toronto Argonauts Football Club announced today that Jim Barker has been relieved of his duties as General Manager.

“On behalf of our entire organization, and our fans, I would like to thank Jim Barker for his many contributions over the past seven years. He helped deliver the 100th Grey Cup to Toronto in 2012, and that will forever define his legacy as an Argonaut,” said Michael Copeland, Argonauts’ President and Chief Executive Officer.

“We remain committed to building a best-in-class organization that consistently plays dominant and exciting football, and wins championships. To help achieve this, we feel that we require the fresh approach that only comes from new leadership.”

Copeland also thanked Argos’ fans for their patience and support.

“Significant changes like this are often made directly after the season. However, having just completed our first year as a new organization, we felt that it was important to take the necessary time to comprehensively review all aspects of our operations before making any decisions. I would like to thank our fans for their patience and support throughout this process.”

Led by Copeland, the search to find the team’s next football leader will begin immediately.

“We have a solid plan to find our next football operations leader, and we will put it into action immediately. We aim to have someone in place as soon as possible, without compromising the search process.”

Copeland also announced today that the Club has promoted Spencer Zimmerman to Assistant General Manager. Zimmerman will direct the team’s player personnel decisions while the search process is underway. Hired by the Argos in early 2016 as Director, U.S. Scouting & Pro Development, Zimmerman has distinguished himself in several football capacities since starting with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2012.

“We have tremendous confidence in Spencer to continue the important and immediate business that is required to improve our football team this off-season and prepare us for a successful 2017,” stated Copeland.

Scott Milanovich remains in his position as Head Coach, and no further organizational changes are contemplated at this time.