Jim Hopson

Mr. Jim Hopson came on board in 2005 as the Roughriders’ first CEO.  Over the past four years, fans have seen many changes on and off the field.  The changes and a focus on excellence in all areas of the operation culminated in the team claiming the 2007 Grey Cup Championship.  A new level of expectations has been set and Jim is focused on building long-term stability with championship-level football and strong business acumen.

Over the past few years, the organization has won Paragon Awards for both marketing and community involvement.  The focus on evolving the business side of the organization has brought forth acknowledgement on a number of levels.  In 2008, the Roughriders were named as one of Saskatchewan’s Top 100 Companies.  Earlier this year, Jim was recognized by Saskatchewan Business Magazine as one of the province’s most influential men.  Most recently, he was inducted by Junior Achievement into the Business Hall of Fame.

Jim’s roots in Saskatchewan football run deep.  He began his football career in high school with the Thom Collegiate Trojans.  He then went on to play for the Regina Rams prior to joining the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 1973.  He became a starter in 1974 and lined up at guard or tackle for each game during the season.  He played four seasons with Saskatchewan and helped open holes for the likes of legendary back George Reed, and in protecting quarterback great Ron Lancaster.

Jim was able to combine teaching in Lumsden with playing professional football during the 1975 and 1976 seasons.  After playing in the 1976 Grey Cup, he retired from football to concentrate on his career in education.  Prior to re-joining the Roughriders in 2005, he spent 30 years as a teacher, principal, and Director of Education/CEO in Saskatchewan.