MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 06: The umpires walk off at half time during the round three AFL match between the Collingwood Magpies and the West Coast Eagles at Melbourne Cricket Ground on April 06, 2019 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)
Former Essendon football boss Dan Richardson has been appointed as the Head of Umpiring, taking over from Grant Williams ahead of the 2021 season, per Fox Sports.
Richardson's new role will entail developing the league senior umpires and will have a strong say in all levels of umpiring in football.
After moving from Richmond, Richardson joined the Bombers for three seasons before being sacked during their post-season review earlier this year.
“Dan has extensive football experience and knowledge, and is highly-regarded across the AFL industry,” AFL GM of football operations Steve Hocking said.
“He brings a clear understanding of high performance, coaching and talent development which will benefit the progression of umpiring nationally.
“We look forward to having Dan as part of the team to continue to grow and support umpiring at all levels.”