Major personnel shake up at Erebus

Erebus Motorsport has confirmed a series of leadership appointments as the team turns its focus to the 2026 season.

Dean Orr, who joins Erebus Motorsport as Team Manager, will lead the team’s on-track operations.

Orr brings extensive experience from his time at Dick Johnson Racing and, more recently, Image Racing and involvement with the Erebus Super2 program, and is known for his calm leadership, clarity and hands-on approach.

CEO Barry Ryan (pictured with Team Owner, Betty Klimenko) said Orr’s appointment was strongly aligned with the team’s culture.

“Dean is no-nonsense, experienced and passionate, exactly what Erebus is about. He understands people, he understands racing, and he leads by example. He’s a great fit for our crew and will help lift us to where we want to be,” he said.

Orr said he was looking forward to becoming an integral part of the Erebus family.

“Erebus is a team that wears its heart on its sleeve. There’s real passion here, but also honesty about the work required to succeed. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and contributing to what this team is building,” he said.

Alongside Orr’s appointment, Carly Hammersley has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer, taking responsibility for all non-performance areas of the team. Working closely with Ryan, she will oversee team operations, partnerships, communications, administration and long-term planning across the organisation.

Ryan said her appointment was a natural step forward for the team.

“Carly gets Erebus. She understands the sport, she understands the business, and she understands our people. Having people working alongside you that you can trust is vital, and having her take charge of the non-performance side means the whole team is aligned and focused. That’s incredibly important for where we’re heading,” he said.

Hammersley said her focus was on ensuring the team is properly supported as it looks to the future.

“When I joined Erebus, I knew immediately it was where I was supposed to be. I care deeply about this team and where we want to take it. Working alongside Betty, Barry and Dean, my focus is making sure the business supports the racing and that we’re set up the right way for what’s ahead,” she said.

Klimenko said the appointments reflect the importance of having the right people in place to support the team’s values and direction.

“Erebus doesn’t change what it is. This team is built on belief, commitment, hard work, fight and passion. What matters is having the right people in the right roles to support that. Carly and Dean both bring strength, clarity and accountability. They work hard, they tell it straight, and they put the team first. That’s what I expect, and that’s what Erebus has always been about,” she said.

John Booker has also been appointed Chief Financial Officer, providing senior financial oversight and governance across the organisation.

Bradley Packham has departed the team, making the decision at the end of the 2025 season to step away from motorsport to spend more time with his partner and family.