'Extraordinary and humbling experience': Hill to depart PNG for Panthers
- Author
- Timestamp
PNG NRL CEO Andrew Hill, one of the driving forces behind the introduction of a Papua New Guinea team to the NRL Premiership, has announced his departure to take charge of the Panthers.
Hill, who was responsible for taking World Cup matches to Port Moresby in his role as RLWC2017 CEO, spent more than three years overseeing the successful bid for a PNG team to join the NRL in 2028.
However, he will not be in charge when the team runs out for its first match at Santos Stadium after announcing his resignation on Wednesday.
The former Bulldogs CEO will instead take on a role closer to home after agreeing to succeed long serving Panthers Group chief executive Brian Fletcher, who is retiring at the end of the year.
"After nearly three and a half years contributing to the NRL Bid and associated projects in Papua New Guinea, I will be stepping away to pursue a new opportunity," Hill said in a statement issued by the PNGRFL.
"This journey has been an extraordinary and humbling experience. I am sincerely grateful for the support, collaboration, and warmth extended to me by the people of PNG throughout this time.
"Recently, I was offered an exciting role that allows me to align my skills and experience more closely with opportunities closer to home.
"After years of travel between Sydney and Port Moresby, I look forward to spending more time with my family.
"With the successful outcome of the PNG NRL Bid and the establishment of the new Franchise Board as of 30 July, now is an appropriate time to transition leadership.
"The project is well-positioned for the next phase, and I am confident that the foundation laid by the many committed stakeholders will continue to grow into a successful and sustainable NRL club.
"I extend my deepest thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. It has been an honour to contribute to such a significant and inspiring initiative."
Hill will commence his new role at Panthers Group in early November and will oversee Panthers Group’s extensive leagues club program, including venues in Penrith, Port Macquarie, Bathurst, North Richmond and Glenbrook, as well as the Western Sydney Conference Centre and Pullman Sydney Penrith.
Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron, who has a close relationship with Hill, will continue to lead the rugby league program, with Hill providing support to ensure its sustained success.
Hill’s career includes senior executive roles at the Parramatta Eels, GWS Giants and the National Rugby League.
He went on to serve as CEO of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, before most recently leading the successful bid for the Papua New Guinea NRL franchise.
“This is a role that allows me to align my skills and experience with one of the most successful and respected organisations in Australian sport,” Hill said.
“Panthers Group has an incredible reputation, not just in rugby league but across its clubs and facilities, and I’m excited by the opportunity to lead the organisation into its next chapter.”
Panthers Group Chairman Peter Graham congratulated Hill on his appointment.
“Andrew is an outstanding leader who brings extensive experience from both the sporting and corporate sectors,” Graham said.
“The Panthers Group is in an exciting period of growth, and Andrew’s appointment ensures we are well-positioned to deliver long-term success for our members and the wider community.”
