Abdo appointed as permanent NRL CEO

Andrew Abdo has been appointed as the permanent chief executive of the NRL.

Abdo took on the role on an interim basis in April, replacing Todd Greenberg amid the coronavirus pandemic.

He joined the NRL in 2013 and was previously chief commercial officer, but his permanent appointment as CEO was confirmed on Thursday.

"Andrew has done an outstanding job as interim CEO," Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V'landys said.

"The commission could not be happier with his work ethic and the way he has led the game through the pandemic. There's no better person to take rugby league in a new innovative direction."

V'landys added: "Andrew has one of the best commercial brains in Australian sport. He has been the one who has brought in the majority of our new non-broadcast revenues.

"Prior to the pandemic our revenues had increased by 15 per cent, year on year, for the past four years and that was down to Andrew and his team.

Andrew Abdo has been elevated from acting CEO to filling the role on a permanent basis after getting the nod from the ARL Commission.https://t.co/pq52Fq7Ri0

— NRL (@NRL) September 3, 2020

"Andrew's commercial and financial background is the perfect skillset for the game's needs moving forward. We are resetting our cost base and we need to make smart investments to set the game up for future generations.

"Andrew thinks outside the square and will look at ways to do things differently. Andrew also possesses a cool and calm temperament which is a vital asset with the many pressures of our great game."

Abdo was delighted to take on the role on a full-time basis, while thanking V'landys.

"It's an honour to be appointed CEO of the NRL," he said.

"I want to thank the commission for their support and setting the strategic direction to lead the game through the COVID-19 pandemic.

"In particular, I want to thank Peter for his leadership and guidance. I've learnt so much from him and will continue to. The game is very lucky to have Peter as our chairman."