The ACT Brumbies have announced Michael Thomson will take over as the club’s chief executive officer, ending a six-month search for Michael Jones’ permanent replacement.
A former general manager for the ACT side, Thomson returns five years after the leaving the club. He spent the past two years at the Australian Sports Commission and has previously held roles at Nike, the Australian Rugby Union and Football Federation Australia.
“The Brumbies have a fantastic tradition of more than 20 years which is important to recognise,” Thomson said.
“I am excited about the opportunity and welcome the challenge to lead the organisation into the future.
“As a Canberran, born and raised, I like many from this region have a great affinity with the Brumbies, and the sport of rugby union. This is an organisation that is bigger than the sport and must continue to truly represent Canberra and the wider region, both nationally and internationally.
“I re-join the Brumbies at a time of change, including the departure of some experienced players. Change also brings opportunity. A new generation of players has the chance to not only carry on the Brumbies tradition, but create a history of their own.”
The Brumbies will be hoping the hiring of Thomson bring some much-needed stability to the Super Rugby franchise, following a tumultuous period at the start of 2017 involving former CEO Michael Jones.
Jones was stood down by the Brumbies board after a controversial radio interview in which he claimed he as being targetted by people outside the club.
However, after taking the club to court, Jones was reinstated, before eventually leaving the club in May after his contract was paid out.
“Michael Thomson will commence the role in January and receive a hand over from Phil Thomson. He will oversee the process for the appointment of a new general manager professional rugby and pathways and commence the search for a new coach for 2018,” Brumbies chairman Robert Kennedy said.
“The Brumbies 2017 season is set and looking in good shape which will allow Michael to settle in and starting putting plans in place for 2018 and beyond. Now is a time for all supporters to get behind the club and, as we did in 1996, show the world what Brumbies rugby is capable of.”
One of Thomson’s first roles will be helping find a coach to replace outgoing mentor Stephen Larkham, who announced he would be leaving the Super Rugby franchise to pursue a full-time role with the Wallabies under Michael Cheika.
The Brumbies franchise was knocked out in the quarterfinals of the 2016 competition and will be hoping to go one or two better in 2017.
Republican
Guest
Big article in Canberra Times today re his appointment and efforts to save the club from axing so those who are in denial and who vilify me as a scare mongerer amongst others, you know who you are, should perhaps take a deep breath and be prepared for the real possibility that the Brumbies are on very thin ice indeed. Moreso than the Force which isn't right but this is certainly indicative of the ruthless commercial criteria that has torn the soul and virtue out of sport today.
Republican
Guest
........he will have approx 12 months in the position since the Brumbies are likely to be no more beyond the 2017 season.