Departing Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly has reacted angrily to a report he is stepping down from his role at the club. Veteran journalist Caroline Wilson revealed last week on Channel 7’s The Agenda Setters that Kelly was leaving his position as CEO but could stay on in a consulting capacity. But Wilson’s report prompted a furious and “nasty” response from the CEO who is currently on a golfing holiday and missed Monday’s King’s Birthday clash.
Coach Reacts to Report
Collingwood coach Craig McRae also reacted to the story following Monday’s loss to Melbourne, saying he didn’t think it was “accurate”. “At some stage I think ‘Ned’ will have an intention to leave, so do you want to leave abruptly, and open the door and exit? That’s not his style,” McRae said. “At some stage, I don’t know what his contract status is, but at some stage he’ll choose to (leave) and then have things in place for his exit. I was surprised by the reporting, because I don’t think that’s accurate, but I’ll let him speak for his own journey.”
Wilson Defends Story
Wilson revealed Kelly himself discussed his departure with industry figures during Gather Round, canvassing opinions about potential successors. And on Tuesday, the respected journalist said she had been surprised and disappointed by the backlash. “I don’t know why everyone’s being so sensitive about this,” Wilson said on The Agenda Setters. “Craig Kelly has told so many people in the industry he’s leaving, he’s spoken, and others have spoken to (Fremantle CEO) Simon Garlick, who has been approached for the job. He’s sounded at other people (and asked) what they think about him leaving. He’s trying to stay on as a consultant. I think the problem is he didn’t tell Craig McRae and a lot of his senior GMs ... the board knew, but Craig hadn’t (heard).”
7SPORT expert Tom Morris said it was possible Kelly was upset because he “hasn’t been able to control the narrative as he would like”. Wilson agreed and decided to give Kelly some advice. “I think that must be right. It’s OK Craig, settle down, enjoy your holiday and come back and focus for the rest of the year.”
Missed King’s Birthday Clash
Monday’s King’s Birthday clash is the second year in a row Kelly has missed the Big Freeze blockbuster. “I don’t really understand why you (Kelly) were quite disappointed,” Wilson said. “I thought your response was weird, as was your decision to miss today’s pivotal King’s Birthday game. My advice to you, Craig, is if you’re trying to keep something quiet, don’t canvas industry figures from Gather Round about the fact that you’re stepping down, or ask people who would be a good successor,” she said.
In 2023, Kelly oversaw Collingwood’s first premiership in 13 years, a monumental achievement for the club. “I thought it was a positive report that is accurate and well-researched,” Wilson said. “And I’ve spoken to many people. I did try and talk to Craig. He has been quite nasty about the report. I just don’t think that Collingwood wanted it to come out when it did.”
