Mike Scully ( born October 2 , 1956 in West Springfield , Massachusetts ) is an Emmy Award-winning American television writer best known for his work as show runner of the Fox series The Simpsons from 1997 - 2001 ( Seasons 9-12 ) . Mike Scully ( born October 2 , 1956 ) is an American television writer and producer . He is known for his work as executive producer and show runner of the Fox series The Simpsons from 1997 to 2001 .