Essendon’s interim chief executive Ray Gunston wants the job permanently.

Gunston, the former Tatts Group chief financial officer, last week replaced Ian Robson, who resigned over his role in the AFL club’s supplements saga.

Gunston was appointed for at least the rest of the season, but wants to stay long-term.

“I certainly would,” he told the Bombers’ website.

“I would like to think that is what is ahead of me and I look forward to the opportunity.”

His first priority is implementing the recommendations of the internal Switkowski report into the club’s governance and guiding the Bombers through the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigation.

But Gunston said there were also more positive tasks, such as overseeing the move to the Bombers’ new high performance centre later this year and building on their strong financial position.

“My role and approach is to build on the strengths of the club, the very many strengths that are being hidden a bit by the current events,” he said.