NRL: NRL CEO Andrew Abdo confirms massive jobs cuts at league headquarters to slash $50 million in spending

The NRL will lose 25 per cent of its workforce at headquarters after CEO Andrew Abdo confirmed a push to cut $50 million in spending NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the league had been hit by a “hurricane” in 2020 which would force difficult decisions to be made and “good people” would be lost to put the game in a stronger position. “We will lose some very good people during this process,” Abdo said. “Talented people with a genuine love and passion for our game who have all contributed in some way. “This is a painful but necessary process to ensure we survive. “I have genuine empathy for all employees affected and we will listen to their feedback. Our game must remain strong for future generations. “We all want to leave the game in a stronger position than we first joined the sport.” The NRL wants a more dynamic and simplified business which will service the needs of fans, the 16 premiership clubs, state leagues, broadcasters, and commercial partners in a new economy. Changes already announced to the NRL’s executive team have reduced executive numbers from 11 members prior to COVID to eight members post COVID. Despite the hefty cuts, Abdo is confident rugby league will come out of COVID with strong foundations to rebuild from. “What has inspired me most during the pandemic is how our game has come together,” he said. “We have shown what we can achieve when we work together. “Rugby league, under the direction of the Commission, has led the way in Australian sport, and I am confident we will continue to do so.” Abdo said the changes were vital to ensuring a more effective and efficient business in a post COVID economy. “Our business, like so many others, has been hit by a hurricane called COVID which caused substantial damage,” he said. “Our strategy moving forward is to stabilise, renovate and grow. “In order to stabilise, we must secure revenues and reduce our expenses to ensure a strong foundation. “Then we will renovate by considering ways to make our products more entertaining and dynamic for our fans. “Finally, we will develop bold plans for growth, looking at new products, new markets and how we can grow the game internationally. “Our game is part of the sports entertainment industry and we are aiming to transform faster than others to remain competitive in a dynamic market.” The NRL business will focus on two important strategic areas, a world-class sports entertainment business and a governing body investing in participation and long-term connection to the community. The NRL will be divided into seven teams, including - Competitions; Partnerships; Fan Experience; Finance, Technology & Operations; Risk, Integrity & Performance; Brand, Media & Communications and Participation & Community.