Riach on the move to Ashburton

Crusaders boss Hamish Riach (right) will leave his role at the end of this year’s Super Rugby season to become chief executive for the Ashburton District Council.

‘‘I am incredibly fortunate to have been in this role at the Crusaders for the last 17 years,’’ he said. ‘‘However I am convinced that the time is right for me to step aside and allow somebody new to come in and guide this organisation forward in the coming years.’’ Crusaders chairman Grant Jarrold paid tribute to Riach’s contribution since stepping into the chief executive role in 2001. ‘‘For 17 years Hamish has been a steady hand at the helm of the Crusaders, with 16 of those years also as the CEO of the Canterbury Rugby Football Union, guiding us as one team through many changes and some turbulent periods with his typical calm demeanour and astute leadership.

Ashburton Mayor Donna Favel said Riach was a standout candidate for the job.

‘‘Mr Riach impressed us with his innovative thinking and focus on collaboration.’’