Coyotes' Xavier Gutierrez Named CEO; Is 1st Latino CEO in NHL History

The Phoenix Coyotes named Xavier Gutierrez their CEO and team president on Monday, making him the first Latino to hold those positions in NHL history, 

"This is a historic day for the Coyotes and the entire NHL," team owner Alex Meruelo said in a statement. "I have known Xavier for over a decade, and he is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of business and investment experience. We share the same approach to business and his intellect, leadership skills and strategic mindset made him the clear choice to be our new CEO."

Meruelo was excited about the hire, wearing a "I sure as s--t want to win" t-shirt during the announcement conference call:

"I am extremely grateful to Mr. Meruelo for this opportunity to lead the Coyotes, which he loves so dearly, and honored to become the first Latino team president and CEO in NHL history," Gutierrez said. "This is a very special and proud day for me, my wife Jericca, our son Xavi and our entire extended family."

Gutierrez, who went to high school in San Jose, said Monday that he was a Sharks fan in the past:

He also said he couldn't wait for the NHL season to resume:

Gutierrez's resume includes being the managing director at Clearlake Capital Group, the CEO of Meruelo Group and the president and CIO of Meruelo Investment Partners, the principal and managing director of the Phoenix Realty Group and was a financial analyst for the NFL's league office, among other positions. 

He takes over for Ahron Cohen, the previous president and CEO.