Former Green Bay Packers president and CEO Bob Harlan, a cornerstone of the franchise’s modern success, has died at age 89. His leadership returned the Packers to championship glory and reshaped the team’s future.
“The Packers family was saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Harlan,” said current president and CEO Ed Policy. “Bob was a visionary leader whose impact on the franchise was transformational. From his inspired hiring of Ron Wolf to his tireless work redeveloping Lambeau Field, Bob restored the Packers to competitive excellence and ensured our flagship NFL franchise stood on sound footing for sustained success.”
Building a Winning Foundation
Harlan joined the Packers in 1971 as an assistant general manager. Over the years, he rose through the ranks before becoming president and CEO in 1989. His tenure featured bold decisions that changed the course of the franchise.
He remains the only person in NFL history to hire two general managers who each built Super Bowl–winning rosters. In 1991, Harlan hired Ron Wolf, who brought in Mike Holmgren, traded for Brett Favre, and signed Reggie White. Those moves led to a Super Bowl XXXI victory over the Patriots, the team’s first championship since Super Bowl II.
“Bob Harlan gave me an opportunity, and I am deeply indebted to him for that,” Wolf said. “His greatest trait, in my opinion, is that he was an honorable man, a man of his word and a man of character.”
A Second Era of Glory
In 2005, Harlan hired Ted Thompson, who built the roster that won Super Bowl XLV against the Steelers. With those hirings, Harlan helped ensure the Packers remained one of the NFL’s iconic organizations while thriving in the modern era.
Aaron Rodgers reflected on Harlan’s humor and warmth: “Bob is one of the most naturally funny people I met in the organization. Whether we were laughing on the bus, embracing after a game, or catching up at the holiday party, I lit up every day I got to see Mr. Harlan. His kind heart, quick wit, and steady hand will remain in the memories of Packers people forever.
Legacy Beyond the Field
Harlan also played a critical role in securing public support for the $295 million renovation of Lambeau Field. The project preserved the stadium as a symbol of both the city and the team.
After retiring in 2008, he served as chair emeritus and remained a beloved figure in Packers history.
A member of both the Packers Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame, Bob Harlan’s vision and leadership ensured the Green Bay Packers would remain a model franchise for generations.
