Hockey Queensland Appoints Mitchell Murphy as Chief Executive Officer to Lead Brisbane 2032 Strategy

Hockey Queensland has officially announced the appointment of Mitchell Murphy as its new CEO following an extensive and highly competitive national recruitment process.

Murphy steps into the role with a robust background in executive leadership and commercial operations across the sports, tourism, and corporate sectors.

Most recently serving as chief operating officer of Hamilton Island Enterprises, where he oversaw an extensive operation employing approximately 1,500 personnel, Murphy brings proven commercial acumen to the state sporting organisation.

The appointment arrives at an important part for hockey in Queensland as administrators target enhanced financial sustainability, expanded grassroots participation, and vital infrastructure development aligned with the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Hockey Queensland president, Claire Henkey, emphasised the alignment between Murphy’s commercial expertise and the organisation’s long-term objectives.

“Mitchell brings extensive leadership experience, a strong commercial mindset and, importantly, an understanding of the opportunities and challenges that come with leading a sporting organisation.”

“As we look towards Brisbane 2032, Hockey Queensland has a significant opportunity to grow participation, strengthen our financial sustainability and advocate for infrastructure that will leave a lasting legacy for our sport.

“The Board is excited to welcome Mitchell and work with him, our staff, associations, clubs, volunteers and partners on the next chapter for hockey in Queensland,” Henkey said.

Murphy will officially commence his tenure as CEO on 6 October 2026, taking over the executive reins from Interim CEO Rob Moore, whom the board acknowledged for his steady leadership during the transition period.

Emphasising his vision for the sport’s commercial and community expansion, Murphy, noted the unique international profile of the game.

“I’m grateful to the Hockey Queensland Board for the opportunity to lead an organisation representing a truly global sport.”

“There is enormous opportunity for hockey in Queensland, particularly as we build towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“I’m looking forward to meeting our clubs, associations, athletes, volunteers and partners and getting to work,” Murphy said.

His notable sports administration credentials include former leadership stints as chief executive officer of Football Federation Victoria and CEO of the Brisbane Bullets, guiding the franchise during its successful return to the National Basketball League in the 2016–17 season.

Holding a Master of Business Administration from RMIT University alongside a Public Leadership Credential from the Harvard Kennedy School, Murphy is well-equipped to drive strategic growth as the organisation prepares for upcoming major sporting milestones.

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