SOUTH Sydney CEO John Lee has quit the Rabbitohs to take up a position with sworn enemies the Sydney Roosters.

Lee has shown a natural finesse for being a club CEO since taking over from Shane Richardson but with big Richo returning to the Bunnies, his cards were essentially marked.

Powerful Roosters chairman Nick Politis has capitalised on the Rabbitohs standoff and handed Lee the job of heading up the front office at one of the NRL’s most influential clubs.

The Rabbitohs confirmed the switch in a statement that wished Lee well in his new role.

Round 19

“John has many positive attributes and established excellent relations with our key stakeholders,” Rabbitohs chairman Nick Pappas was quoted.

“John enjoyed a good relationship with our board, our investors and our members.

“We wish him all the best for his next challenge.”

Lee has presided over a tumultuous 12 months at the Rabbitohs which included posting a $1.4 million profit and the prescription drugs overdose of Dylan Walker and Aaron Gray.

The Roosters have been seeking a strong administrator since chief operating officer Brian Canavan’s departure last month.

With Lee’s political background and strong rugby league pedigree the CEO will be ideal for the Roosters.

Shane Richardson is set to take back the reins as Rabbitohs boss after John Lee’s departure. Source: News Corp Australia

There was a view once Richardson returned to the Rabbitohs as general manager of football Lee was at risk of becoming a lame duck CEO.

It’s also understood Lee had clashed with Souths co-owner Russell Crowe over a range of issues, another reason he needed a fresh start.

Lee signs off after a record breaking year for the Rabbitohs and said he was proud of what the club had achieved in his time.

“We broke all of the NRL membership records last year, as the first NRL club to pass 35,000 members,” he said.

“This is by far the largest membership base in the NRL.

“South Sydney is in a strong financial position. The club continues to make a profit with the money being set aside for the future needs.

“The corporate partners are engaged and serviced like no other and the club has continued to strengthen its commitment to the community with an increased number of clinics and educational programs through Souths Cares.

“Souths has great staff and committed players, and I wish them all the best into the future.”