The MCC has commenced a search for a new chief executive officer, following Stephen Gough’s decision to retire after more than 17 years in the position.
No date has been fixed for his departure, and the timing will depend on the appointment of a successor. However, it will most likely take effect during 2017. In the meantime, it will be business as usual.
"It is difficult to think of the MCC and the MCG without Stephen at the helm, but we understand that for him the time is right to retire," said MCC president Steven Smith. "He will leave the club in robust health, with both the MCC and MCG having gone from strength to strength during his tenure," Mr Smith said.
Stephen joined the MCC as CEO in 1999 after seven years as Carlton Football Club CEO, part of an 18-year association with the Blues after an earlier career as a teacher.
In addition to managing the MCG and its 3-4 million annual visitors, he has had responsibility for the one of the world's most unique clubs, with more than 110,000 members and another 240,000 people waiting to join.
While there will undoubtedly more in-depth reflection on Stephen’s key achievements and legacy in our next edition, some of the key highlights of the Gough era include redevelopment of the northern side of the MCG (complete with a new MCC Members Reserve); securing the management of Yarra Park and implementing a master plan that has drastically improved the park amenity; and renegotiating key venue agreements with AFL and Cricket Australia, guaranteeing long-term event content at the MCG for decades to come.
In making his announcement, Stephen said it had been a privilege to serve the MCC.
"It is with regret that I conclude my time at the MCC, which has been such a major part of my life for the last 17 years," Mr Gough said. "However, I think it is an appropriate time for both the club and me."
"The reputation and connections that the club has, domestically and internationally, makes it such a great place to be involved with, and it has been a pleasure to be a part of that.
"The club has a strong and diverse set of skills within its committee, with great support from MCG Trustees. I wish to acknowledge these people and the staff, volunteers, members and our partners for their efforts over the period that has made this time so enjoyable.
"I will certainly miss the challenges involved. However, I know the club is in a solid position to continue to perform as it has done over its long existence."
While he has achieved much, it hasn’t gone unremarked by his colleagues that Stephen wasn’t able to witness a Carlton premiership during his 17-year reign, proving that the MCC CEO doesn’t have complete control of everything that happens at the ‘G.
