The Vancouver Canucks have signed general manager Jim Benning to a multi-year contract extension.

Team president Trevor Linden announced the extension on Wednesday.

"I'm grateful to the Aquilini family and to Trevor Linden for the commitment they've made to me and for their confidence in our long-term vision for the Vancouver Canucks," said Benning. "I'm excited about the direction of our team and the depth and talent we continue to build. I believe we are on the right track and I am pleased to continue the work we started four years ago when we set out to build a championship team."

Benning was in the final year of his current contract, which he signed upon joining the team in 2014.

The franchise has a 131-138-33 record since Benning took over as general manager.

"With Jim's guidance and leadership we have put the building blocks in place for a bright future," said Linden. "We have strong internal alignment and I am excited to continue working towards our ultimate goal of bringing a Stanley Cup to Vancouver."

The extension comes on the same day Linden released a letter to season-ticket holders asking for patience as the team attempts "to build a young, fast exciting Canucks team that competes every night and ultimately has a chance to bring the Stanley Cup to Vancouver."

Prior to joining the Canucks, Benning spent seven seasons as the assistant general manager of the Boston Bruins.