Incoming Hawthorn President Jeff Kennett says he is excited by the prospect of a “new start” in his second stint of presidency at the club.

Speaking to SEN on Wednesday, Kennett acknowledged that he couldn’t have predicted finding himself in the position he held for six years between 2006 and 2011 again. 

Read: Kennett returns as president

But after being approached by former President Richard Garvey on Tuesday, Kennett said he felt a duty to Garvey to accept his proposal and resume the role.

“I felt obligated to him,” Kennett said.

“I haven’t heard of many people who are prepared to accept responsibility as fulsomely as Richard is.”

Kennett appointed Garvey to the Board in 2010. 

The former Victorian premier is regarded as playing a pivotal role in bringing about Hawthorn’s 2008 premiership, as well as setting up the threepeat of 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Kennett believes his second term in the position will not be as difficult as the challenges that faced him when he first accepted the role in 2005. 

“I accept at this time knowing that we have some very good people at the club at senior levels, we are financially sound and we have a membership that is three times as big as it was in 2005.

“So, I think, from my point of view, it will be about continuing the things that matter to the club.”

Strong club governance, employee welfare and a platform from which the football department can thrive are three of Kennett’s main focuses as he leads the club into this next phase.