Carlton appoints former Collingwood administrator as Cook’s CEO successor

Cartlton has appointed Graham Wright as its new deputy chief executive.

The Blues will soon formally announce the acquisition of Wright, who has been lured to the club as CEO-elect and next year’s successor to Brian Cook.

Wright, one of the most experienced club administrators in the AFL, will complete a thorough handover period alongside Cook before assuming full control at some stage in 2025.

The appointment is the culmination of a 12-month process by the Blues, who have been canvassing options ahead of Cook’s departure next year. Cook, president Luke Sayers and members of the Carlton board were involved in the search.

Wright joins after working in recruiting at Brisbane and Hawthorn. He helped bring success to Hawthorn as list manager before serving as the head of football at Collingwood during the Pies’ premiership year of 2023.

He this year embarked on a sabbatical from the game and a long overseas holiday, citing burnout.

The Magpies were adamant Wright would return to his role refreshed, but he quit the club in August.

It’s understood Wright has long held CEO ambitions.