 At the time of announcement, Peter Leahy stood down as CEO to allow ISM co-leader Andrew Cox to take that position.On 4 August 2017, with the threat of the Rebels franchise being 'axed' from Super Rugby, Imperium Sports Management and CEO Andrew Cox relinquished control of the Rebels, transferring its shares at $1 per share to the Victorian Rugby Union.General Manager Baden Stephenson was named the new CEO of the Rebels following Cox's departure.