Geelong chief executive Brian Cook is set to step aside from his duties at the end of 2021, ending the longest-serving tenure of any club CEO, per The Age's Peter Ryan.
Cook was first appointed to the club's leading role in 1999, with the Cats going on to end a 44-year premiership drought, win a total of three flags, support numerous redevelopments to Kardinia Park and the add a women's AFLW side among many others feats.
Cook arrived at the Cattery after an impressive stint with West Coast in the 1990's and helped Geelong overcome their mounting debts along with historic membership records.
Incoming Geelong president Nathan Drummond commended Cook's contribution to the club and revealed the Cats are looking to keep the 65-year-old at Kardinia Park over the next few years.
“We are keen to keep him in a paid role and active role within the club because he has been huge for our organisation. He continues to be huge for our organisation,” told The Age.
“The board, the executive and our stakeholders have nothing but the highest degree of respect for him and we’re currently working with Brian to work out exactly what that role looks like, but I am optimistic and very keen that he stays in a meaningful role.”
Drummond added that the club won't be naming a successor to Cook any time soon, with the club's next CEO having a major void to overcome.
“It’s going to be very challenging. They are huge shoes to fill,” Drummond said.