The Cheetahs have confirmed that managing director Harold Verster will leave his position at the end of November after 28 years at the helm.
Verster, the longest-serving rugby administrator in South Africa, will step down at the end of November after 28 years in charge and will be replaced by Ross van Reenen, a well-known businessman and former Free State player, who comes in as chief executive officer of the Cheetahs on 1 December.
Verster, who will remain available in an advisory capacity, thanked the board and union for their recognition and support.
“The past two years were the toughest of my long involvement with Free State rugby. I am, however, grateful that we were able to weather most of the challenges with the support of the Union and the Cheetahs Board and our incredible supporter base across the country and the world.
“The stadium stands as a beacon of pride and resilience in the Free State. The Challenge Cup is currently being played here, the Currie Cup competition is around the corner and the prospect of the Cheetahs playing international rugby again, inspires me as a member of the Free State rugby family.
“I can think of no better man than Ross van Reenen to take over the reins and raise much-needed capital to ensure our sustainability and high performance. I will support Ross like I did as a player for the Shimlas and Free State. I look forward to ‘scrumming’ with him in the coming months to ensure Free State rugby goes from strength to strength.”
Commenting on his appointment, Van Reenen said it was a great honour and privilege to be appointed as CEO. “I salute Harold for making the Cheetahs one of South Africa’s top teams. He has played an important role in my life as fellow player and in the rugby world. The Free State has shaped me as a person and a professional. It is time to plough back and the opportunity to do so is very exciting.”
According to the Cheetahs, Van Reenen has an established track record as a financial, turnaround and transformation leader in busines, international consulting and education. He holds a BA Hons, Higher Education Diploma and a MBA degree, obtained with distinction from the Oxford-Brookes University in London.
He is also the author of the bestselling book ‘From Locker Room to Boardroom – converting rugby talent into business success’ and owner of a private academy he established to prepare rugby players for a professional or business career after sport.
