Former MLB & White House security & operations professional tabbed as Director of Safety & Security for the Seattle Mariners

Christopher Ellis, who has coordinated security and operations for Major League Baseball's "Jewel Events," as well as logistics for events involving President George W. Bush, has been named Director, Safety and Security for the Seattle Mariners.

Ellis will begin his new post on Monday, April 6, Opening Day for the Mariners 2015 season.

Most recently, Ellis has been a Security Supervisor for MLB in Security and Facilities Management. During his time there, Ellis was instrumental in establishing the Best Stadium Operations Practices that each MLB Club is implementing, including the use of enhanced screening for all fans. He was also responsible for managing MLB's Resident Security Agent (RSA) program as well as managing the personnel within MLB's Authentication program.

Ellis coordinated both Security and Operations for multiple All-Star games, World Series games and the World Baseball Classic qualifying rounds in Germany (2012), Arizona (2013) and MLB's Opening Series in Australia (2014).

"Chris has invaluable skills in security and an in-depth understanding of logistics and operations within MLB that will help us continue to make Safeco Field a safe and secure environment for our players, fans and employees for many years to come. His optimism, personality and leadership style will be a great addition to the team," said Joe Myhra, Seattle Mariners Vice President of Ballpark Operations.

Prior to his work with MLB, Ellis served as a Senior Advance Representative for the Executive Office of the President during the George W. Bush administration. In that role he was responsible for planning and managing logistics and technical support for international and domestic events involving the President and First Lady.

Ellis also worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in Washington, D.C., where he was a Trip Director for Secretary Michael Chertoff, working closely with senior staff members, government agencies, U.S. embassies and foreign governments.

Prior to his security roles, Ellis served one year as Assistant General Manager of the now defunct Newark Bears, which was a member of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball at the time. While there, he was responsible for day to day operations of 60 game day employees and served as the liaison to their ownership group, front office staff and players.

Ellis is a graduate of the University of Denver where he was a goalie on the University's Division I hockey program and also participated as a student manager.