The Cronulla Sharks have been crying out for some good news and they finally received it, with the club appointing Lyall Gorman as their new Group CEO.
Gorman, who had strong ties in soccer related administration roles in the past – specifically with the A-League and the Central Coast Mariners – brings 30 years of experience to the helm.
Gorman’s role at the Sharks will involve overseeing the football club, the leagues club and any additional development work carried out by partners, Bluestone Constructions.
With the need to appoint a well-known CEO that knows the business, the game and how to run a business, Sharks Chairman Damien Keogh believes Gorman is a quality fit for the role.
“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.â€
Gorman’s track record has seen him enjoy a successful stint as a soccer administrator for some years now. He was the brainchild behind the formation of the Western Sydney Wanderers and was a key factor in their development.
Additionally, Gorman was in charge of the A-League in 2010 and was also the Executive Chairman of the Central Coast Mariners for six years.
With experience in several different administrative areas, Gorman is excited with the new challenge ahead of him in a new sport.
“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.
With the Sharks issues in past seasons – internal and external – Gorman is keen to get started in the role and aid the club to become bigger and better in the future.
“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,” Gorman said.
“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.