The Oakland Raiders have confirmed the retirement of Senior Executive John Herrera, who served the organization in numerous capacities for over three decades. Herrera will remain involved with the Silver and Black, working with owner Mark Davis on special projects.
"At this point in my career and after careful thought and consideration, I have decided to take a break," said Herrera. "I've had a great run, 35 years over three tours of duty, and have been privileged to work in every area of the organization. I've enjoyed the whole ride and cherish my relationships with the Davis family, players, coaches and front office staff. I have developed lifelong friendships with people that have come through the organization and my time with the Silver and Black has exceeded my wildest expectations."
Herrera has been a lifelong Raider, first joining the organization in 1963 at the age of 16. He has gone on to work in every corner of the team's operation including player personnel, scouting, media relations, training camp operations, team travel, stadium negotiations, community relations, security and even one season as a member of the coaching staff.
Herrera, who served stints in scouting and player personnel with two other NFL teams and as a General Manager and Director of Player Personnel in the Canadian Football League, remained a Raider at heart and rejoined the organization as Senior Executive in 1985. He has continued in that position ever since, contributing to the Raider organization in a myriad of executive capacities.
Since returning to the Silver and Black, Herrera was given complete authority to locate sites and execute training camp operations on two different occasions. He coordinated Raiders training camp efforts in Oxnard, Calif. for 11 years and in Napa for the past 16 years. He also headed up a staff dedicated to identifying and exploring new stadium locations and building projects for the organization.
Multiple times throughout his tenure, Herrera was called upon to participate in player drafts and evaluate talent. He was also intimately involved with alumni events including reunions and recent memorials for Raider Legends Gene Upshaw, George Blanda and Jack Tatum.
The relationships that were forged over his time with the Raiders included a close connection with the Davis family. Herrera frequently attended various sporting events with Mr. Davis, and the Herrera family has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the Davis family. While Herrera has retired from his position as Senior Executive, he looks forward to future challenges and opportunities with the Silver and Black.
