Blues CEO stands down after six years in charge

Blues CEO Michael Redman has resigned from his post after six years in charge of New Zealand’s most disappointing Super Rugby team.

Redman announced his resignation today and the search for his successor has commenced immediately.

The Blues, who have access to the largest player base of the New Zealand franchises, have failed to make any headway under Redman’s reign. Since Redman took over, the former champions have finished bottom of the New Zealand conference every season,  coming in 10th overall in 2014, 14th in ’15, 11th in ’16, 9th in ’17, 14th in ’18 and 13th in ’19.

“From the outset I initially envisaged five seasons but it was vitally important to provide stable leadership for our staff and sponsors during this last 12 months of unprecedented shareholder, governance and coaching changes,” Redman said in a press release.

“But I believe it is now important the Blues get the opportunity to appoint someone to lead the club for the next five-plus years – and that is not me.”

The recent signing of Beauden Barrett has been considered a major coup for the Blues and is arguably the squad’s greatest achievement since Redman came on board. Given that Barrett may only appear for two and a half seasons over his four year contract, the magnitude of this achievement can be debated.

Redman has also overseen the transition of the Blues to a new, state-of-the-art training facility.

“Now we have just signed one of the best players in the world. We have fantastic staff and I know success is just around the corner,” Redman said of the Blues’ future.

It’s not the first time that a Blues revolution has been “just around the corner” – however we’re yet to seen any that this time it will be any different.