Boss of NRL’s Papua New Guinea team quits post for Panthers’ top job

The Papua New Guinea expansion team has been dealt a significant blow with chief executive Andrew Hill resigning from the role, accepting a position as Panthers Group chief executive.

Hill is set to take over from Brian Fletcher, who has been at the helm of Panthers for more than a decade, but is retiring at the end of the year.

Hill has been instrumental in setting up the Papua New Guinea franchise that will lead to the team’s arrival in the NRL in 2028. Hill has informed the NRL of his decision to depart.

Hill’s departure comes a little more than a month after PNG bid heavyweight Wapu Sonk stood down from its board.

Sonk, who chaired the bid to join the Australian competition in 2028 and was named last month as one of the incoming franchise’s seven directors, stepped aside after this masthead revealed concerns about his dealings as managing director of PNG’s multibillion-dollar national oil company.

Sonk has denied any wrongdoing, labelling the allegations as “baseless claims”.

“After nearly three and a half years contributing to the NRL bid and associated projects in Papua New Guinea, I will be stepping away to pursue a new opportunity,” Hill said.

“This journey has been an extraordinary and humbling experience. I am sincerely grateful for the support, collaboration, and warmth extended to me by the people of PNG throughout this time. Recently, I was offered an exciting role that allows me to align my skills and experience more closely with opportunities closer to home.

“After years of travel between Sydney and Port Moresby, I look forward to spending more time with my family. With the successful outcome of the PNG NRL bid and the establishment of the new franchise board as of 30 July, now is an appropriate time to transition leadership.

“The project is well-positioned for the next phase, and I am confident that the foundation laid by the many committed stakeholders will continue to grow into a successful and sustainable NRL club. I extend my deepest thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. It has been an honour to contribute to such a significant and inspiring initiative.”

On Wednesday afternoon, Panthers Group chairman Peter Graham welcomed Hill.

“Andrew is an outstanding leader who brings extensive experience from both the sporting and corporate sectors,” Graham said.

“The Panthers Group is in an exciting period of growth, and Andrew’s appointment ensures we are well-positioned to deliver long-term success for our members and the wider community.”

Hill said he was thrilled to be joining the Panthers.

“This is a role that allows me to align my skills and experience with one of the most successful and respected organisations in Australian sport,” Hill said.

“Panthers Group has an incredible reputation, not just in rugby league but across its clubs and facilities, and I’m excited by the opportunity to lead the organisation into its next chapter.”

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