Waratahs CEO steps down
One of the longest serving CEOs in NSW history, Jason Allen, has announced his decision to move on from the organisation, following four years at the helm.
Allen instigated a significant change process and now leaves the organisation at the top of its game with the business enjoying the benefits of a strong financial footing and a championship-winning rugby team.
2014 has seen Waratahs Rugby earning record revenues and net earnings, culminating in the Tahs’ first-ever Super Rugby title.
Chairman Roger Davis reluctantly informed the Board of Allen’s decision.
"Jason has done a remarkable job as our CEO and his resignation was accepted with a great deal of regret and disappointment.
"You could ask for no more evidence of the positive results of Jason’s commitment to the organisation over the past four years than the athletic and financial successes, which are the holy grail of all sports administrators, often sought but rarely achieved," he said.
Allen was grateful to the boad for their invaluable support over the years and feels it was the perfect time for him to consider his next steps.
"I am very grateful to the Waratahs Board for their invaluable support over the past four years, and to our terrific commercial partners and key stakeholders.
"I’m very proud of the incredible commitment and passion of the on- and off-field staff here at the Waratahs.
"On the back of a record-breaking season, the business has never been in better shape and I feel now is the perfect time to consider my next steps.
"These last four years have seen significant change take place at all levels of the business. In 2012 we became a vision and values-based organisation, with a clear focus on excellence, accountability and innovation. As well as being Super Rugby Champions, next season looks set to eclipse 2014 and deliver record membership numbers, with early indications showing a 50% increase in demand and member satisfaction ratings at over 90%.
"As well as an explosion in the team’s social and digital media reach, the Waratahs have also fostered stronger links to the NSW Rugby community, thanks to the strength of the Tahs Together community engagement, launched two years ago.
"I am hugely grateful to the Waratahs Board and senior leadership team for their support and commitment in making all this possible and I wish them and the team the very best of luck for 2015 and beyond," he said.
Allen joined Waratahs Rugby in November 2010, bringing with him over 20 years' experience of building and growing organisations, having held a variety of senior executive positions with blue chip companies across Australia.
Decisions on the future leadership of the organisation will be made in due course.
