Jim Irsay, former owner of the Indianapolis Colts, dead at 65. He will be missed by a remarkable legacy in the NFL and an even more remarkable family. His two daughters—Carlie Irsay Jackson and Carlie Irsay Gordon—were made vice chair/owners 14 years ago. They’re all prepped to push their late pop’s vision for the franchise forward.
It was even true then — in 1972, Jim Irsay quietly took control of the Baltimore Colts. He inherited the team from his father, Bob Irsay, who built a huge fortune. Having had all the advantages of growing up in privilege, Jim Irsay learned early on what having such responsibility would entail. Throughout his life, he worked to get his daughters ready for a role they could one day have.
Recently, Carlie Irsay Jackson has become known as the face of the Colts’ charitable efforts. Under her leadership, the organization has introduced the “Kicking the Stigma” campaign. They’ve dedicated more than $31 million in grants to create awareness and educate the public about mental health problems. This pledge to philanthropy is very much a product of the values their father instilled in them.
Of late, Carlie Irsay Gordon has greatly increased her profile within the franchise, directly involved in day-to-day operations in a way that transcends fiduciary responsibility. Her impact ranges across the entire organization— including marketing, communications and community relations to football operations and analysis. She temporarily filled her father’s role during Jim Irsay’s league-imposed suspension in 2014, showcasing her capability and readiness to lead.
Like their gubernatorial father, both daughters were uniquely suited for their future roles from a young age.
“I started out in the ticket office. But over the years, my dad has encouraged my sisters and I to get involved in the places we’re interested in. When we were growing up, it was, ‘You don’t have to do this.’ But I love it.” – Carlie Irsay-Gordon
An executive from an NFL team, speaking under anonymity, put a finer point on Irsay Jackson’s qualifications to be a modern-day owner.
“She also has the rare blend of appreciating tradition and professional expertise but not being bound by it because she is a progressive thinker. Very good people skills as well. She will be a great steward of the organization.” – Executive from another team
Carlie Irsay Jackson’s reputation as a dynamic leader is further solidified by her deep understanding of the franchise’s operations, developed over years of involvement.
“Carlie has been embedded in the business for probably over a decade at this point. She’s smart, a continuous learner, rigorously works to understand football from a scouting and coaching perspective.” – Executive from another team
While the Colts primary goal is on their future with a new stadium. Their leadership team is still the same, with strong leaders like Pete Ward, the chief operating officer who is entering his 45th season with the Colts, and Dan Emerson, the chief legal officer who has represented the Irsays since 1984. Their experiences will be critical as they move through this period of transition.
The Colts franchise are at an exciting but precarious crossroads upon the passing of Jim Irsay. His daughters are well qualified to assume their leadership positions. They are anchored by an unusual asset—a dedicated and talented future management team that knows the organization’s past and its forward trajectory. Their father had built an incredible foundation. They’ll be continuing his vision and will be adding their own special touches that come from their perspectives and expertise to the position.
Leave a Reply