
Hymie Elhai
President
Biography
HYMIE ELHAI (pronounced HI-me EL-hi) begins his fourth season as the president of the New York Jets after his appointment in 2019. Now in his 23rd year with the team, Elhai's impact has been felt throughout the organization and been defined by his unwavering commitment, a passionate goal to redefine the culture of the organization, and a steady hand of leadership and strategic planning.
Under Elhai, who has garnered league and industry respect by his peers during his tenure, the Jets have solidified their business staff's senior leadership, as he oversees all team business operations, bringing his balance and perspective to those various departments, including: Communications, Community Relations, Content, Corporate & Premium Partnerships, Events & Game Operations, Facilities, Finance, Information Technology, Legal & Human Resources, Marketing, Security and Ticketing.
Playing a key role in hiring of the football leadership, Elhai worked with Christopher W. Johnson to hire General Manager Joe Douglas in 2019, and with both Johnson and Douglas to hire Head Coach Robert Saleh in 2021.
The collaboration among Elhai, Douglas and Saleh forms the foundation that has moved the Jets toward their goal of being a sustained, winning, and innovative franchise on and off the field. Throughout his time as president, he has worked closely with the football staff, providing counsel and support for various organizational-encompassing objectives. Additionally, in his previous role as general counsel, he helped football administration on all planning initiatives.
Among the important initiatives under Elhai was the formation of the Social Justice, Diversity and Inclusion Team (SJDIT) and the expansion of the Jets Women's Organization (JWO). The SJDIT helps steer the Jets as it relates to the process and execution of the team's Social Justice efforts as well as internal diversity and inclusion practices. The JWO now encompasses the many women affiliated with the organization, including staff members, wives and significant others of coaches, players, and football personnel, serving as a unique outlet to positively impact the workplace, industry, and community.
During the COVID-19 outbreak, Elhai and his staff worked closely with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy's office and the NFL, as the team developed their protocols. Prioritizing employee safety, his communication and direction helped manage the unprecedented uncertainty of a global pandemic, keeping the business staff optimized despite working remotely.
Elhai, who was born in Queens, NY and grew up a Jets fan often frequenting games at Shea Stadium, began his Jets career in 2000 as an intern. He previously served as the club's senior vice president, business affairs and general counsel, where he was responsible for all legal aspects of the team, including sponsorship, licensing, event, digital media, production and broadcasting agreements, and all employment related matters.
Elhai currently serves as a member of the NFL's CBA player benefits plan committee.
In October 2021, Elhai received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Rutgers School of Law at their 2021 Alumni Recognition Gala.
A Sports Business Journal Forty Under 40 honoree, Elhai is a graduate of Rutgers Law School and The Johns Hopkins University, where he played football and baseball. Elhai resides in Hoboken, NJ.