Derek Franks has transitioned from the Fresno Grizzlies to the chief operating officer at Lee's Air, Heating & Plumbing. Photo illustration by Israel Meave

Lees Air, Heating & Plumbing has announced Derek Franks, former president of the Fresno Grizzlies, as its new chief operating officer (COO).

Franks comes to the local HVAC company after his departure from the Minor League Baseball team last week. He has more than two decades of executive leadership experience in operations, strategic growth, partnerships and organizational development.

In his new role as COO at Lee’s Air, Franks will oversee daily operations, strategic planning, team development and continued market growth, according to a news release, aiming to strengthen systems and elevate customer experience across the Central Valley.

“I’m honored to join Lee’s Air, Heating & Plumbing at such an exciting time,” Franks said. “I look forward to working with the team to support continued growth and deliver exceptional service to the communities we serve.”

Franks said going from leading a professional baseball organization to being the COO of an HVAC company is a big change, but the fundamentals of leading a business are the same. 

He said Lee’s Air is a special company with a strong reputation in the community. 

As COO, his role will be to align the team, improve processes, and support continued growth. The goal is to help a strong company get even better while keeping customer experience front and center. 

Franks started with the Fresno Grizzlies in 2004 as an intern, advancing through leadership roles and playing a key role in making Chukchansi Park a destination for sports and community events.

“Derek’s proven leadership, operational discipline, and ability to build strong teams make him an outstanding addition to our executive team,” said Damon Bromagem, CEO of Lee’s Air.

Franks guided the Grizzlies through ownership transitions, major stadium improvements and expanded special events and community partnerships.

He oversaw more than $15 million in improvements to Chukchansi Park, including the addition of the Fresno Social section, the splash park, new videoboard and more.

“This was not about walking away from baseball. It was about stepping into something new with people I already trust,” Franks said.