Collingwood have confirmed the appointment of departed Sydney football boss Charlie Gardiner to the role of executive general manager of football at Olympic Park.
Gardiner left the Swans earlier this year to return to Victoria to be closer to family, with the Magpies among the clubs keen on attaining the well-rated administrator.
The 41-year-old spent six years with Sydney, five of which as the lead of the club's football program. He will begin his new role with Collingwood in the new year.
"I am excited to join Collingwood, a Club with such rich history and passionate supporter base," Gardiner said of his arrival.
"I look forward to getting to know the people that make up this Club and build on what is already a strong and well-placed football program and hopefully contribute to future success.
"Finally, I'm grateful to Sydney and everyone at the Swans for the journey over the past six years - I have thoroughly enjoyed working with all of the staff and players."
Gardiner played a total of 63 AFL games between stints at Geelong and St Kilda in the 2000s.
His arrival at Collingwood is one of several fresh changes to come at the Magpies, who have welcomed the return of assistant coach Matthew Boyd from Fremantle.
The club has also announced Trevor Hendy will head up the Magpies' leadership program, while Richard Little has been appointed as a list and recruiting analyst.
