Newbold, who assumed the presidency at the end of 2011, will serve another three-year term after being re-elected unopposed. As per the Club’s constitution, this will be his final term and he will conclude his service at the end of 2017.
In his first term the Hawks President has led the Club to three consecutive Grand Finals, including two premierships.
Experienced lawyer Peter Nankivell officially joined the Board filling the vacancy left by retiring Director Martin Ralston, who was awarded Club Life Membership at the meeting.
Ralston was elected to the Hawthorn Football Club Board in 2005 and served as Vice-president from 2006–2009, before again assuming the role in 2014.
He is the founding chairman of the Hawthorn Foundation and was a key member of the Club’s Finance & Risk Management Committee, where he has had a major impact on corporate governance and business strategy.
Newbold recognised the outstanding service of Ralston during his nine-year tenure.
“Martin has made an outstanding contribution as a Board Director, particularly through his valuable input into the Club’s five2fifty and all for one business plans," he said.
“Martin has also been a major supporter of the Hawthorn/Box Hill alignment and has overseen a very successful period in the Club’s history, which has included three premierships."
Incoming Director Nankivell, a consultant at Thomson Geer Lawyers and former Chairman of Partners at Herbert Geer Lawyers, will bring a great deal of legal experience to the Board.
President Newbold said Nankivell be a valuable addition to what is already a strong leadership group.
“A life-long supporter, Peter has been professionally involved with Hawthorn Football Club as a legal adviser and an independent member of the Finance and Risk Management Committee where he reviewed the Club’s Constitution and governance structures," he said.
“With his extensive legal background, knowledge of governance protocols and our Club culture, Peter is the perfect addition to our Board and team at Hawthorn."
Current Board members Linda Kristjanson and Andrew Gowers were re-elected at the meeting.
Hawthorn also celebrated the committed service of Gaby Warren, Ken Williams and Bobby Lovegrove who were presented with Life Service and Football Service awards.
