Gold Coast SUNS Chairman John Witheriff has confirmed he has accepted the resignation of Chief Executive Officer, Travis Auld.

“Travis Auld has tendered his resignation as Chief Executive of the Gold Coast SUNS, and will leave the club at the end of the season.”

Mr Witheriff paid tribute to Mr Auld’s contribution and leadership during the all important establishment of the Gold Coast SUNS.

“Travis has made an extraordinary contribution and played a significant role in the establishment and development of our football club over a five year period.

“He has been a great leader of our club and is well liked by his colleagues, our board, sponsors, and supporters.

“From a personal perspective, I have found Travis to be a man of great character. I’m proud to call him a friend and he goes with my very best wishes,” Mr Witheriff said.

“I’ve been asked about his achievements. Frankly they are too numerous to list. The easy answer is to look at the Gold Coast SUNS now. When Travis joined, we had no name, no jumper, and a handful of players and staff. He has much to be proud of” Mr Witheriff said.

Mr Witheriff confirmed that the process to find a new Chief Executive had already commenced, and highlighted his faith in the current club executive team.

“The matter of finding a new Chief Executive is underway, and in the near future the board will engage an employment consultant to identify candidates for the role.

“Like any well governed organisation we have a properly considered succession plan for all senior roles in our club. The club is blessed to have an outstanding executive leadership team, and I have absolute confidence that when the transition occurs at seasons end, it will be a seamless process.”

“With new people come new and exciting opportunities and I am extremely optimistic about our future,” Mr Witheriff said.