░B░R░E░A░K░I░N░G ░B░R░E░A░ 🅱🆁🅴🅰🅺 It’s Time To Say Goodbye: Collingwood Has Officially Announced The Retirement of Lachlan McDonald The General …

In a bittersweet moment for the Collingwood Football Club, the Magpies have officially announced the retirement of long-serving executive Lachlan McDonald, Executive General Manager of Finance and Governance. After more than a decade of dedicated service behind the scenes, McDonald’s departure marks the end of an era for one of the club’s most influential off-field architects. The news, confirmed by club president Jeff Browne in a statement released this morning, comes as Collingwood reflects on a transformative period that included a drought-breaking premiership in 2023 and steady financial growth amid the AFL’s evolving landscape.

McDonald, 45, joined Collingwood in 2005 as a financial controller and steadily climbed the ranks, becoming General Manager of Finance in 2010 before ascending to his current role in 2013. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in steering the club’s fiscal ship through turbulent waters—from the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic to major infrastructure investments like the $100 million upgrade to the club’s training facilities at the AIA Centre. Under his guidance, Collingwood’s revenue streams diversified, with sponsorship deals and membership growth surging by over 40% since 2015, helping the club maintain its status as one of the AFL’s most commercially potent brands.

“Lachlan has been the quiet force that kept us grounded while we chased the stars,” Browne said in the official announcement. “His expertise in governance and finance hasn’t just balanced the books; it’s empowered our on-field success and community impact. We’re profoundly grateful for his unwavering commitment and wish him every success in his next chapter.”

McDonald’s retirement, effective at the end of the 2025 fiscal year in June, was a decision he described as personal and timely. In a heartfelt LinkedIn post shared yesterday—quickly garnering over 500 reactions from AFL industry peers—he reflected on his journey: “Twelve years at Collingwood have been the highlight of my career. From crunching numbers during premiership builds to navigating the highs and lows of club life, it’s been an honor. As I step away, I’m excited to explore new opportunities, perhaps in consulting or mentoring the next generation of sports executives. Go Pies—always.”

Collingwood insiders point to McDonald’s role in key milestones, including the club’s response to the 2021 cultural review that led to sweeping governance reforms. He spearheaded the implementation of transparent financial reporting practices, which not only restored fan trust but also positioned the Magpies as a model for ethical management in the league. Off the ledger, McDonald was known for his mentorship of young finance professionals, many of whom now hold senior roles across AFL clubs.

The timing of his exit coincides with broader executive transitions at Collingwood. As the club eyes a return to finals contention in 2026 following a mid-table finish this season, McDonald’s shoes will be filled by internal promotion: Sarah Johnson, current Deputy GM of Operations, will step up, bringing her own blend of strategic acumen and innovation. “We’re in safe hands,” McDonald told reporters during a brief media scrum outside the club’s Olympic Park headquarters. “Sarah’s got the vision to take us further, and I’m confident the executive team will continue to thrive.”

Fans and colleagues wasted no time in paying tribute. On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #ThanksLachlan trended locally, with posts flooding in from former players like Scott Pendlebury: “Behind every great team is a great backroom. Lachie, you made it possible. Legend.” AFL CEO Andrew Dillon also extended well-wishes, noting McDonald’s contributions to league-wide financial standards during virtual board meetings.

While McDonald’s on-field legacy may be indirect—no premiership medallion adorns his mantle—the ripple effects of his work are undeniable. Collingwood’s 2023 flag, the club’s 16th, was as much a triumph of strategy and sustainability as it was of skill and grit. As one club source put it, “Lachie didn’t kick goals, but he made sure we had the resources to chase them.”

As the curtain falls on McDonald’s Collingwood chapter, the club—and the AFL at large—pauses to celebrate a career defined by precision, passion, and quiet leadership. It’s time to say goodbye, but his impact will echo for seasons to come. Here’s to the numbers man who helped build a dynasty.