EREBUS Motorsport has made a raft of appointments to its leadership hierarchy including the recruitment of a former Dick Johnson Racing staffer.

Having won the championship in 2023 and the Bathurst 1000 in ’24, last year proved a rebuilding campaign for Erebus.

It heads into the new season with high hopes for young guns Cooper Murray and Jobe Stewart, who will operate behind a bolstered front office.

Carly Hammersley has been named chief operating officer and John Booker chief financial officer, while Dean Orr has been signed as team manager to replace the outgoing Bradley Packham.

Orr’s vast experience includes an eight-year tenure as DJR team manager from 1998 to 2006.

“Erebus is a team that wears its heart on its sleeve,” said Orr.

“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.”

CEO Barry Ryan welcomed the moves: “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.

“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.”

Carly Hammersley with Betty Klimenko. Pic: Supplied

He also paid to tribute to Packham, affectionately known as ‘B2’.

“B2 has given a huge amount to Erebus over many years,” said Ryan.

“He’s part of the Erebus story and always will be. We wish him nothing but the best but knowing him, just like B1 (Brad Tremain), we’re pretty sure we’ll see him pop up for the odd cameo appearance down the track.”

Hammersley, who has been with Erebus since the start of 2024, will take responsibility for all non-performance areas of the team.

“When I joined Erebus, I knew immediately it was where I was supposed to be,” she said.

“I care deeply about this team and where we want to take it.

“Working alongside Betty (Klimenko), 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.”

Team owner Klimenko added: “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.”