The Magpies announce Charlie Gardiner as their new head coach.

Collingwood Football Club has announced another major shift in its off-field operations, naming Charlie Gardiner as the new head of their AFL football department. This move is part of an extensive restructuring process the club has undertaken to bolster its leadership and maintain its competitive edge.

Charlie Gardiner joins Collingwood after spending six years with the Sydney Swans in various administrative capacities. He succeeds Graham Wright, who played a pivotal role in the club’s recent premiership success but is transitioning to a new role at Carlton. Gardiner’s appointment was officially announced on Tuesday, solidifying his return to Melbourne earlier this year due to family commitments.

A former player for Geelong and St Kilda, Gardiner brings a wealth of experience to the Magpies. At the Swans, he initially served as the head of football before stepping into a legal counsel role earlier this year, a position he held following Leon Cameron’s appointment as Sydney’s football boss. His multifaceted career, combining on-field experience with strategic and legal expertise, positions him as a strong asset for Collingwood’s football program.

In making their decision, Collingwood reportedly considered several high-profile candidates, including Brisbane football manager Danny Daly, Fremantle legend Peter Bell, Adelaide list manager Justin Reid, and Port Adelaide’s Chris Davies. Ultimately, the club selected Gardiner, citing his comprehensive skill set and proven track record in football administration.

“I am thrilled to join Collingwood, a club steeped in history and supported by such a passionate fan base,” Gardiner said in a statement released by the club. “I’m eager to connect with the people who form the backbone of this organization and build upon the strong foundation that is already in place. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the club’s ongoing success.”

Gardiner’s tenure with Collingwood will officially begin in 2024. He will collaborate closely with newly appointed list manager Justin Leppitsch, further strengthening the club’s operational framework. Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly expressed enthusiasm about Gardiner’s arrival, emphasizing the importance of his leadership in shaping the future of the Magpies’ football department.

“We are excited to welcome Charlie to Collingwood,” Kelly stated. “He has demonstrated exceptional capabilities in shaping football strategies and delivering results, as evidenced by his tenure with the Swans. His leadership will be integral as we aim to build sustained success.”

Gardiner’s appointment marks another significant chapter in Collingwood’s post-premiership evolution. The 2023 AFL premiership victory underlined the strength of the club’s football program, but several key changes have followed in its wake. Last week, long-serving recruiting boss Derek Hine departed the club in what was described as a mutual decision. Interim football boss Brendon Bolton also moved on, taking up a role with St Kilda.

Adding to the turnover, Graham Wright, who masterminded the 2023 premiership success, stepped away earlier this year for a leave of absence. He is now poised to join Carlton in a leadership capacity, working alongside CEO Brian Cook as part of a planned handover. Meanwhile, Collingwood’s president Jeff Brown has announced his intention to leave the club at the end of the year to focus on his health.

Gardiner’s previous employer, the Sydney Swans, expressed gratitude for his contributions during his six-year tenure. Swans CEO Tom Harley acknowledged Gardiner’s impact, particularly during the challenging COVID-affected seasons.

“Charlie was instrumental in navigating the club through the tumultuous COVID years, a period that ultimately set the stage for our return to the grand final in 2022,” Harley said. “His integrity, commercial acumen, and football expertise made him an invaluable member of our team.”

Reflecting on his time with the Swans, Gardiner expressed both gratitude and fondness for the experiences and relationships he built.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Swans,” Gardiner said. “The club’s culture and the people I’ve worked with have been truly remarkable. I’ve been privileged to share some incredible moments with both players and staff, and I’m confident the Swans are well-positioned for continued success. I’ll be watching their journey with great interest.”

Collingwood’s decision to appoint Gardiner reflects a commitment to innovation and excellence in its football operations. By leveraging Gardiner’s blend of playing experience and administrative expertise, the Magpies aim to solidify their position as a powerhouse in the AFL. With key leadership roles now filled, including Gardiner’s as football boss and Leppitsch as list manager, the club is poised for a promising future.

These structural changes are emblematic of a broader vision at Collingwood—one that seeks to balance respect for the club’s storied legacy with the demands of modern football. Gardiner’s approach, which combines strategic planning with a deep understanding of the game’s operational aspects, aligns seamlessly with this vision. As he steps into his new role, Collingwood fans will be eager to see how his leadership shapes the next chapter of their club’s journey.

In the ever-competitive landscape of AFL football, Collingwood’s proactive measures highlight a determination to stay ahead. The club’s leadership changes signal not only a response to recent successes but also a recognition of the need for continuous improvement. For Gardiner, this new role represents both a challenge and an opportunity—a chance to leave a lasting imprint on one of the league’s most iconic clubs.