Sudden exit for Hawks’ chief

HAWTHORN has parted ways with chief executive Tracey Gaudry just five months after she claimed the job.

Gaudry’s sudden exit leaves three Melbourne clubs — Collingwood, the Western Bulldogs and the Hawks — searching for a new CEO.

Former AFL football boss Simon Lethlean and ex-Dogs CEO Simon Garlick head a field of likely contenders.

Gaudry, 48, a former Olympic cyclist and Athletics Australia marketing executive, replaced Stuart Fox, who defected to the Melbourne Cricket Club last December.

She was the game’s female chief executive.

Hawks president Richard Garvey last night said Gaudry had “stepped down” because of personal circumstances.

“Unfortunately, Tracey has faced extenuating family and personal circumstances this year which have made it difficult to continue in the role,” Garvey said.

“On behalf of all at Hawthorn, I want to thank Tracey for her considerable contribution to our club in the relatively short time she has been our CEO.

“We understand and respect her decision to stand first down. Tracey has been incredibly selfless and professional throughout this process and the club wishes her and her family all the best in their future endeavours.”

Gaudry was a surprise selection in a lengthy process run by Pacific Search Partners at the start of the year.

Hawthorn director Peter Nankivell will act as the club’s interim chief executive.

Garvey said of Gaudry’s appointment in May: “Tracey has been an elite athlete and she’s also been in sports administration at the elite level. We were just so impressed with her passion and drive.

“She just brings a perspective, a passion and leadership style that is absolutely unique. She’ll do wonders in the AFL industry.”