Rugby: Dawson decides time is right to stand down

Gary Dawson is stepping away from his role as chief executive of the Chiefs Super rugby franchise after 13 years.

The Mount Maunganui resident said he had been thinking about making a move for the last two months and believed now was the ideal time so the Chiefs board had time to recruit a new CEO who could be in place to start the new financial year in September.

"You get to a stage every now and then when you review what you are doing with your career and with the Chiefs going so well it was the right time," Dawson said.

"In some ways it was a hard decision and in other ways it was quite an easy one. But I am feeling good about it."

He said he was not certain what he would do in the future but he did have options.

"Who knows what's next but the key thing is to get through the next three months here at the Chiefs and finish off the season strongly, and help with the transition with the new CEO.

"My focus over the next few months will be on ensuring the Chiefs finish the 2013 season in the best possible position."

Dawson said he was particularly proud of the Chiefs staff and players who he believed are the best in the business and would take the Chiefs to even greater success in coming years.

"It has been a real privilege to work alongside incredibly talented people who are passionate about the Chiefs," he said.

"That has been a real highlight for me and something I will treasure going forwards."

Dawson has been in charge at a time of positive growth and key changes at the Chiefs.

"Things like having Waikato Stadium built and being part of that, moving to our new training base at Ruakura, being the first franchise to set up an independent management structure and winning the championship last year are things I am proud of.

"Just having a game with a big crowd and the team wins, and seeing the enjoyment and joy on the faces of our fans, is something that has been an incredible experience."