Davies, 35, played first-class cricket for South Australia from 1997 to 2003 and since his retirement has enjoyed a number of key roles in sports administration.
In July 2005 Davies was appointed general manager – cricket operations and membership of the Australian Cricketers’ Association after which he assumed the position of chief executive at SANFL club Woodville-West Torrens in September 2008.
From 2008 to his departure at the end of 2012 Davies helped the club increase attendance, membership and sponsorship revenue. The Eagles also won the SANFL premiership under his watch in 2011.
Port Adelaide chief executive Keith Thomas said the club was delighted to have an administrator of Davies’ calibre join the club.
“As a club, we developed a high regard for Chris as an administrator last year when we worked through the issues of the SANFL restructure. Chris was very balanced and highlighted why he is considered both locally and nationally as a very good sports administrator,” Mr Thomas said.
“His experience at the Australian Cricketers’ Association, Woodville-West Torrens and most recently at the SANFL as head of football gives him a great blend of experience to take on this important role here at Port Adelaide.
“The role will include the same level of responsibility as Peter Rohde had including the challenge of consolidating the AFL-SANFL structure we have with the Power and the Magpies.”
Mr Thomas said that Rohde’s recent decision to leave the Power in December not only put the club in a position to secure Davies but also to manage the transition to a new general manager – football in an organised manner.
Davies says he’s excited to be joining Port Adelaide as general manager – football.
“When I decided to leave the SANFL and the opportunity presented itself to join Port Adelaide in this role I had no hesitation in joining this proud footy club,” Davies said.
“I’m really looking forward to the challenge. This type of role was certainly something I wanted to get into once I had made up my mind to leave the SANFL.
“I’m joining the club at a very exciting time and I can’t wait to get started in early November. I’m very grateful that Keith and the Port Adelaide Football Club have given me this fantastic opportunity.”
