New South Wales Rugby Union have announced the appointment of senior government official Paul Doorn as its new chief executive officer.
Doorn’s appointment comes after a lengthy recruitment process, following the departure of former NSWRU boss Andrew Hore last year.
Doorn has extensive senior executive experience, and most recently served as the CEO of Venues NSW, and prior to that was an Executive Director in the NSW Government’s Office of Sport.
“After an extensive independent search, we are delighted to have secured Paul as the next CEO of the NSW Rugby Union and the NSW Waratahs,” said NSWRU chairman Rodger Davis in a release.
“He brings to the position an extensive and critical array of business and government credentials and connections, extensive stadia management skills and a long-held passion and love of rugby.
“The Board and management team unequivocally welcome Paul to the team.”
Doorn, who played rugby with Kiama, West Harbour and St Pats in the NSW Suburban Rugby, said he was looking forward to contributing to the growth of the game in NSW as part of his new role.
“I am delighted to be appointed as the next CEO of NSW Rugby Union. Having been involved in roles that support NSW to compete globally, I have a great appreciation for the importance of a thriving and inspiring sporting brand that binds communities together,” said Doorn.
“The opportunities to grow NSW Rugby’s market share and solidify NSWRU’s position as a leader in the Australian sports market are vast, and I look forward to working closely with the Board and fellow senior leaders to realise these exciting opportunities.
“It’s an exciting time for rugby in NSW with the Centre of Excellence development being the first step in growing our great game across the state, from the grassroots to our Super Rugby and Super W teams.
“I’m particularly looking forward to working with the NSW Rugby Union Board to rebuild our connection to the community and develop pathways for our rugby stars of the future.”
