NRL shock: Greenberg stands down
The NRL is on the lookout for a new chief executive after Todd Greenberg sensationally stepped down from the role after four years at the helm.
Greenberg was contracted until the end of the season but was under immense pressure after falling out with ARLC chairman Peter V’landys.
Many of the clubs had also lost confidence in the former Bulldogs boss, making his position virtually untenable.
The NRL issued a statement yesterday stating the parties had ``mutually agreed’’ to the move. Chief commercial officer Andrew Abdo will take over in an interim capacity.
``The role of chief executive of the NRL is one of the most challenging and difficult roles in Australian sport, with a diversity of passionate stakeholders,’’ V’landys said.
``The ARLC thanks Todd for his contribution to the game over the last seven years and as chief executive for the last four years.’’
Greenberg is the first big-name casualty as V’landys seeks to slash costs at Rugby League Central. Several other executives are likely to follow.
``It has been my great honour and privilege to be the CEO of the NRL for the last four years,’’ Greenberg said.
``Despite the variety of challenges and pressures, I have loved every single minute of the journey. Our growth over the last four years has been extraordinary and I am very proud of my contribution to the game.
``I am indebted to the game for the variety of opportunities and experiences that have been provided to my family and I, and we leave with many great memories and lifelong friendships.
``My sincere thanks to all the stakeholders across the game, particularly the fans who are the lifeblood of rugby league. Their unwavering passion for the game is wonderful.
``I remain in awe of the players’ skill and bravery to play this game week in and week out and I thank all of them, both past and present, for their friendship and support.
``My thanks also to the staff and executive team at the NRL. It has been an absolute honour to lead this team of talented, resilient and hard-working professionals.’’
Greenberg’s departure could be the first of many from the NRL executive team.
The Sydney Morning Herald reported yesterday that V’landys was ``apoplectic’’ following a breakdown in communication regarding funds to NRL clubs.
V’landys promised clubs a A$1.21 million (NZ$1.28 million) guarantee for the next three months to stay afloat during the coronavirus pandemic that forced the shutdown of the competition.
But only A$1.187 million (NZ$1.25 million) was delivered to the clubs at the start of April.
The SMH reported V’landys wanted to know if chief financial officer Tony Crawford was to blame or if he was acting on the instruction from Greenberg or someone else and that the trust has since all but eroded to the point of no return.
This comes as the NRL management push for the restart of the competition. The hopes is for the competition to resume on May 28, with the Warriors included.
But the fate of the side is still unknown as the Warriors wait to be given the all-clear to travel to Australia to play in the competition.
The side does not require an exemption from the New Zealand government to leave the country, but travel restrictions are in place for those coming into Australia. The Australian government is yet to make a decision.
The Warriors were due to travel on May 3, giving the side enough time to be in isolation before the start of the competition.