After nearly 11 years at the helm, Brisbane Lions CEO, Greg Swann, today announced he’ll be stepping down from the Lions to take up a new role at the AFL. 

Swann, who has been CEO across Collingwood, Carlton and Brisbane over the past 26 years said he was ready for his next career challenge.

Swann will finish with the Lions on Friday 18 July following the club’s Gabba home match against the Western Bulldogs.

“I’d like to thank the Board, all of the staff, players, fans and members who have contributed to the club over my journey,” Swann said.

“It is the efforts of a wide range of committed and connected people who have managed to turn this club around and shape the club we have become.

“When I started, there were some challenging times, but the Lions are now a club fans want to support, and importantly we’re a club players want to play for.

“Claiming the two AFLW flags (2021, 2023) and the 2024 AFL Premiership are the highlights, but across the board, the club is now in a really strong position on and off the field.

“We’ll soon be debt free, membership is at record levels, we have a great list across both the men’s and women’s teams, our base at Brighton Homes Arena is one of the best in the Australian sport and we have certainty and clarity moving forward with the new Victoria Park Stadium.

“I’d like to thank my wife Leonie, kids Steph and Dylan for their ongoing support during my time in Brisbane. Leonie has been by my side every step of the way and she has been an integral part of the club’s transformation.”

Lions Chair, Andrew Wellington paid tribute to Swann and congratulated him on the new AFL role.

“Greg’s steady hand and experience has been crucial to the club’s renewed success. He’s been a terrific leader during some challenging times, and it has been a pleasure to work along side him as a colleague and friend.

“On behalf of the wider Lions family we wish Greg all the best with the AFL and know he will make the same positive impact on the code that he has at the Lions.”

Mr Wellington said Lions Chief Operating Officer, Sam Graham will take over as the Lions new Chief Executive Officer.

“Sam has been our Chief Operating Officer for more than 18 months now. In that time, he has demonstrated his strong capabilities and built strong relationships within the club and with our key stakeholders. I am confident he will hit the ground running.”