Reds seek new CEO
NEWS: Queensland Reds are scouting for a new Chief Executive after Richard Barker stepped down from his post.
Barker told Reds coaches of his decision after their 41-52 defeat to the Waratahs on Saturday, informing players and QRU staff on Monday.
QRU Chairman Jeff Miller thanked Barker for his two-years in charge at Ballymore and congratulated him on several key achievements.
Miller confirmed that current QRU COO David Hanham will become QRU’s Interim CEO, as the QRU considers a process to identify its next CEO: “Richard and I have been discussing the QRU’s future requirements for a couple of months, given the changes that he has implemented here over the past two years.
“On behalf of the QRU Board, I thank Richard for his significant contribution to the ongoing health of the code in Queensland. We wish Richard and his family the very best in the coming months and years.
“David Hanham will step up as the QRU’s Interim CEO as we begin the process to identify our next CEO,” Miller said.
Arguably the biggest decision during Barker’s stewardship was the QRU’s appointment of Brad Thorn as Reds Head Coach in October 2017 and with that, the resetting of the Reds’ team culture to promote a sustainable winning-mentality.
Barker said: “I thank Damien Frawley, Jeff Miller and the QRU Board for giving me the opportunity to lead the organisation over the last two years. Those who know me well, know there’s a bit going on my life right now aside from Rugby.
“Rugby is incredibly important to people in this state. The organisation has worked hard to ensure that game continues to grow and is enjoyed by all Queenslanders. I acknowledge the wonderful work done by the hardworking staff of the QRU and by the enormous group of volunteers who provide opportunities for girls and boys to play Rugby in this state.
“On the professional rugby side, Brad is leading this young group through his actions and sets standards that this organisation will reap the benefits of in the years to come and I ask that we back him and continue to support him,”
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