Queensland Rugby League Appoints Jeff Reibel as Chief Executive Officer

The Queensland Rugby League (QRL) has officially announced the appointment of experienced sports administrator Jeff Reibel as its new CEO, effective November. Reibel steps into the role following the recent departure of Ben Ikin earlier this month.

Reibel arrives at the QRL with an exceptional reputation across Australian sport, having recently served as CEO of the North Queensland Cowboys for seven years. His tenure with the Cowboys spanned over two decades in various capacities, during which he was instrumental in driving key organizational milestones.

These achievements included steering the club through the operational challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining a strong financial position, facilitating the successful transition to a new stadium, spearheading the launch of the club’s NRLW team, and championing the growth of the Cowboys Community Foundation.

Reflecting on his new appointment, Reibel expressed his enthusiasm for taking the helm at the state governing body.

“It’s an incredible honour to join the Queensland Rugby League and contribute to an organisation that plays such an important role in the fabric of our state.”

“Rugby league in Queensland has a proud history and a vibrant future, and I’m excited to work alongside our clubs, participants, volunteers, partners and communities to help strengthen the game at every level,” he said.

QRL chair, Brian Canavan, praised Reibel’s proven capacity for driving sustainable growth and maintaining deep grassroots engagement within the sport.

“Jeff is an outstanding leader with a proven track record of success in rugby league, and we are delighted to welcome him to the Queensland Rugby League.”

“His experience leading one of the NRL’s premier clubs, combined with his deep understanding of the game and strong commitment to community outcomes, makes him exceptionally well placed to guide the QRL into its next phase of growth,” Canavan said.

Reibel will formally commence his duties as QRL Chief Executive Officer in November, stepping into a well-positioned organization poised for continued development across all levels of the game in Queensland.

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