A tumultuous week has ended with a bang at the Wests Tigers front office with CEO Shane Richardson’ calling it quits.
His departure, however, has not come as a complete surprise.
Last week the club sacked the independent directors on its board, including chair Barry O’Farrell, the former NSW Premier.
Holman Barnes Group, which runs the Wests Tigers, claimed they had been left out of the loop on important decision by the board, and acted accordingly.
Unfortunately, all that decision did was confirm that the joint venture is essentially a basket case.
Richardson’s departure speaks to that perception in spades.
In a media statement issued at 3.20pm today, the club said “Wests Tigers can confirm that Chief Executive Officer, Shane Richardson has today advised the Club of his resignation.
The veteran administrator said he was proud of what had been achieved throughout his time at the club.
“It’s been a privilege to be part of the Wests Tigers and see what we’ve been able to achieve as a club,” Richardson said.
With the support of his executive team, Richardson oversaw commercial growth across the club.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Benji Marshall, the players, staff, sponsors and fans for their support over the last two years.
“We’ve got a fantastic group of staff who work tremendously hard – from administration through to football – and their efforts in turning this club around need to be recognized; without them the club would not be in the position it is today.”
Holman Barnes Group said they have accepted the resignation of Richardson.
The Group’s chief executive officer Daniel Paton said:
“We thank Shane for his service. His resignation paves the way for a new path forward for the football club, and we will be making an announcement about the new leadership in the near future.
“We again wish to reassure our fans and the broader NRL of our commitment to the joint venture.
“We intend for everyone to move forward together as one, and will be driving this reality through a new CEO and leadership,’’ Paton said.