"The Lightning's searches for a CEO and a general manager seem to be on parallel paths. That may seem strange given owner Jeff Vinik's declaration the CEO will hire the GM. But interviewing candidates for both jobs gives the organization logistical flexibility. Best-case scenario, a new CEO hits the ground running with a vetted short list of GM candidates from which to pick. But as a precaution, the team also must be prepared to hire a general manager without a CEO in place. That's not ideal, because the GM will answer to the CEO. But the general manager must plan for the June 25-26 draft, and the timing for hiring a CEO can be flexible if Vinik's choice has personal obligations that keep him from immediately coming on board or perhaps obligations to a current employer. The Lightning has been tight-lipped about its searches." http://www.tampabay.com/sports/hockey/lightning/tampa-bay-lightning-could-hire-gm-before-ceo/1093754
