Andrew Hill to Depart PNG for Panthers

Papua New Guinea’s bid to join the NRL has reached a pivotal leadership transition, with PNG NRL CEO Andrew Hill announcing his resignation after more than three years in the role.

Hill will step down in November to become CEO of the Panthers Group, succeeding Brian Fletcher, who retires at the end of the year.

From Bid to Operational Planning

Hill’s exit comes shortly after the creation of the PNG NRL Franchise Board on 30 July, a move that signalled the project’s shift from bid stage to operational planning ahead of its proposed 2028 debut.

In a statement, Hill described his time in PNG as “an extraordinary and humbling experience” and said the establishment of the new board marked a “natural point of transition.” He expressed confidence that the governance structures now in place would ensure the project’s sustainability.

Strategic and Commercial Implications

The leadership change raises questions around continuity for a bid considered strategically significant to both the NRL and the Australian Government, which has strongly backed PNG’s inclusion as part of its regional engagement strategy.

While Hill leaves with the licence secured, the project now moves into a commercially sensitive phase. Priorities include building broadcast value, developing player recruitment pathways, securing facilities, and driving corporate partnerships.

PNG’s entry presents both opportunities and challenges, expanding rugby league into a new market while managing travel, infrastructure, and financial sustainability demands.

Hill’s Next Chapter with Panthers Group

Hill will shift from leading a government-backed expansion project to overseeing one of Australia’s most commercially diversified sports organisations.

The Panthers Group operates a multi-venue leagues club network across New South Wales and owns hospitality assets including the Pullman Sydney Penrith and the Western Sydney Conference Centre. Rugby league operations will remain under Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron, while Hill takes charge of the broader business.

Panthers Group Chairman Peter Graham said Hill’s appointment positions the organisation for “long-term success,” citing his mix of sporting and corporate experience.

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