NRL boss Andrew Abdo has started the process of a major restructure of his executive team to align with the Australian Rugby League Commission’s strategy to grow the game with a focus on the Pacific.
Abdo has been working behind the scenes for the past couple of months on a restructure designed to complement a strategy that is likely to see the introduction of a new team in the Pacific, with a focus on Papua New Guinea, as well as the growth of the women’s and international game. The NRL also has sights set on a 20-team competition over the next decade.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo is making changes to his executive team.Credit: Sydney Morning Herald
Abdo is now in the process of executing a leadership restructure of the organisation. Staff were informed of the changes on Wednesday morning.
That restructure will include the merging of two executive general manager roles (fan experience/digital and partnerships).
Abdo has decided to combine the roles previously held by the long-serving executive Jaymes Boland-Rudder and Alexi Baker and will go to market for a new chief revenue officer.
The NRL will also restructure its communication and stakeholder relations portfolios.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo and South Sydney Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly after a meeting to discuss Las Vegas last week.Credit: Kate Geraghty
Executive general manager of media and communications, Grant Williams, will finish up with the NRL after completing a short-term contract with the sport.
Williams had always planned to move on from the NRL this year, allowing for a restructure that will see former Australian Financial Review columnist Misha Zelinsky assume all communication and government relations responsibilities as the executive general manager of corporate affairs.
Zelinsky has been working with the NRL to assist with its push into Papua New Guinea as the government pushes for the license of the 18th team to be held in the rugby league-mad nation.
