Rugby: Chief executive of Chiefs to leave franchise

After 13 years of leading the Chiefs which included the franchise's first Super Rugby title - chief executive Gary Dawson, has announced he is leaving at the end of the season.

Dawson said it was always his desire to leave the Chiefs when they were in a strong position and believes now was the right time.

After 14 Chiefs' Super Rugby seasons, Dawson said he would miss being involved in the excitement which came with each campaign, however on a personal level after 13 years it was time for a change.

Dawson said the early announcement was made so the board had time to recruit a new chief executive who could be in place to start for the new financial year in September.

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

Chiefs chairman, Dallas Fisher said Dawson's contribution to the Chiefs had been immense.

"He has done an outstanding job and leaves the Chiefs in a very strong position moving forward."

Fisher said Dawson had help implement new integrated training and administration facilities at Ruakura, established new infrastructure within the organisation and taken high performance rugby to a new level both on and off the field.

The Chiefs will commence a recruitment process for Dawson's replacement later in the month.

Dawson will leave the Chiefs in late August.