The new Board appointed at the recent AGM, has discussed a proposed fresh and modern new management structure designed to increase the Board's effectiveness, but also to promote inclusion & unity. 

The Board will now be trialling the new structure in 2021 as opposed to what is provided for in the constitution. 

It is not the Board's intention to pre-empt any outcomes from the recent strategic planning, however the feedback from our community and the recent strategic workshop findings, has highlighted the desire and need for a smaller Board and a new perspective, so the Board are merely setting a new course for improvement.

The new management structure sees a Managing Director overseeing and working with 5 Directors - Operations, Rugby, Finance, Marketing & Sponsorship, and Relations. Working with these Directors are Liaison Groups. We are extremely fortunate to have experienced, knowledgeable and passionate people in these key roles. 

1. Nathan Buckley, Director of Operations. Nathan is a Marist Premier old boy, who has also been involved in the Junior Club the past few years in a coaching role for his kids. His business acumen through his role as Sales Manager at DB Breweries lends itself well to the operational business of the Club.

2. Duncan McGrory, Director of Rugby. Duncan has a vast knowledge of rugby at many levels including Club and has also coached the Harbour Hibiscus Farrah Palmer Cup team in 2020. He has already brought some new and exciting ideas to the table which we look forward to seeing come to fruition.

3. Susan Cameron-Smith, Director of Finance. Susan was heavily involved in Marist’s Junior Club a few years back, having been Junior Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. She has an accounting and teaching background and is back in the fold with her son coming through into Seniors. Her knowledge of the Club’s workings will be a great asset.

4. Fletcher Prendergast, Director of Marketing & Sponsorship. Fletcher is a former Marist Premier Centurion whose father co-founded the Club. He has also been involved with coaching in the Junior club in recent years. Fletcher’s role as a National Sales Manager and his natural gift of the gab puts him in good stead for this role.

5. Ambrose Samuels, Director of Relations. As Club President for the past 3 years, and as a past Premier player, as well as a teacher at Rosmini College, Ambrose is already well known around the Club. He has a passion and a real knack for cultivating and maintaining positive relationships within our membership and beyond.

We have also brought into the fold the existing Saints Supporters Club – a passionate group who facilitate fundraising to support the Club. Also under the new structure is the Planning Group who will be extending their portfolio to drive the strategic plan, the constitution revamp, as well as continue to work with Council and RFA/Ateed regarding our home within the Stadium Complex.

And last but not least, our Communications team, lead by Club Administrator Sara Prendergast, who will continue to keep members informed and abreast of all the goings on at Marist.

As you can see in the diagram attached (click image to view), all our management team are across more than one group, as many areas overlap.  This creates an inclusive environment, with good communication flows between all groups. We are very fortunate to have such a strong group of people who are willing to debate and decision-make as a united and collaborative team, working together for the good of the WHOLE club.

This Management team and their Liaison Groups are excited to work within this new structure to create an even bigger and brighter future for our Club.  

Article added: Wednesday 02 December 2020