The Cronulla Sharks announce that Lyall Gorman has been appointed to the position of Sharks Group Chief Executive Officer.

Sharks Chairman Damian Keogh made the announcement of Mr Gorman’s appointment at Sharkies Leagues Club today on behalf of the Board, Sharks members, sponsors and supporters.

In this new comprehensive role Gorman will oversee the football club, leagues club and development work being carried out by partners Bluestone Constructions.

“The appointment heralds a new beginning for the Sharks,” Keogh said. “Lyall has a mandate to take this club into the future and through the meetings with myself and other Board members during the recruitment process it is clear we share a vision for the type of club we want to build.

“While known for his recent accomplishments as a Football administrator, Lyall has a strong background in rugby league as a player, coach and referee over many years and we welcome him back to the sport in this significant role with the Cronulla Sharks.”

With an impressive pedigree in business and sport, Gorman is perhaps best known as the man behind the successful introduction of the West Sydney Wanderers to the Hyundai A-League.

He was also Head of the A-League in 2010 and prior to that was responsible for building the Central Coast Mariners into a successful franchise both on and off the field as Executive Chairman during the first six years of the A-League competition.

Gorman has over 30 years of experience in senior management, project management and administration in both the Public and Private sectors.

“I am both delighted and honored to be appointed to this role” said Gorman. The opportunity to harness the tremendous pride, passion and parochialism that exudes across the members and supporters of this club and the broader Sutherland Shire provides the perfect platform to build a successful and winning high performance culture on and off the field.

“Combining those ingredients, with a Board which has a very clear vision for the future; an exceptionally talented playing roster across all teams in the club; a professional and committed football, management and administration staff; a wonderful Junior League Association and a very committed group of corporate partners and supporters, has been the carrot to convince me that this is where I want to be,” Gorman continued.

“I have no doubt that with the consistent application of the right vision, values and culture this club’s future is one of endless possibilities.

“The future of our club will be built on the back of everyone associated with it working together in the same direction.

“I look forward to the journey ahead and to working with all stakeholders both inside and outside, to set a new benchmark across the NRL while simultaneously making a significant contribution and difference to the wonderful people and region that is the Sutherland Shire,” he added.

Gorman’s tenure with the Sharks begins effective immediately.