Carlton has named Robert Priestley to replace Luke Sayers as the club’s new president

Carlton has appointed its new club president, taking over from Luke Sayers after his resignation in January. MATT FORREST has the details.

Carlton has appointed Robert Priestley as the club’s next president, taking over from Luke Sayers after he stepped down last month.

Priestley was elevated to the presidency following a three-year tenure as co-vice president, and is the current chairman of J.P. Morgan Australia and New Zealand.

“From a very young age, watching the reserves and seniors with my grandfather, father, and brothers on the city-side wing of our home at IKON Park, Carlton has always given me a strong sense of belonging – no doubt like it has for so many of you,” he wrote in a letter to Carlton members.

“It is a privilege to receive this opportunity and not for a second will I take it for granted.

Carlton’s new president Robert Priestley. Pictures: Carlton FC

“I very much look forward to playing my part, working collectively with our entire Carlton community as we strive to establish our Club as an industry leader on a stable and consistent basis.

“Our football club does not belong to any one individual, be it the board, the players, coaches, coteries, or administrators – it is the collective, with everybody playing their part, that will make Carlton great on a sustainable basis.”

Sayers stepped down from the presidency in the wake of the lewd image controversy, despite the AFL clearing him of any wrongdoing.

Patty Kinnersly, who was the co-vice president alongside Priestly, will continue in the vice president role.

Originally published as Carlton has named Robert Priestley to replace Luke Sayers as the club’s new president