Queensland Rugby CEO Richard Barker steps down for personal reasons
RICHARD Barker has stepped down from his role as the Queensland Rugby Union’s chief executive for personal reasons.
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RICHARD Barker has stepped down from his role as the Queensland Rugby Union’s chief executive for personal reasons.
The decision, with immediate effect, had been discussed informally between the respected Barker and QRU board members for months before the final decision.
Barker would not be drawn on detailing the personal reasons.
Barker’s wife Tracey has metastatic breast cancer and recently told her story to The Courier-Mail to raise awareness of the disease, which can return many years after an initial diagnosis.
Barker’s most significant move during two years at the helm of the QRU was his active role in the appointment of Brad Thorn as Queensland Reds coach.
He improved the balance sheet during difficult times financially, built stronger relations with clubs, re-signed the St. George Bank as naming-rights partner and repaired the fractured relationship with Perpetual Ground Members and 30-Year Members.
In March, the QRU reported a modest profit for the 2017 financial year of $22,263, an improvement on the 2016 loss of $789,380.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to lead the organisation over the last two years,” Barker said.
“Those who know me well, know there’s a bit going on in my life right now aside from rugby.
“Rugby is incredibly important to people in this state. The organisation has worked hard to ensure that the game continues to grow and is enjoyed by all Queenslanders.
“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.”
David Hanham will step up as the QRU’s interim CEO as the process to identify the next CEO is undertaken, said QRU chairman Jeff Miller.
Originally published as Queensland Rugby CEO Richard Barker steps down for personal reasons
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