Moore to move on following outstanding service

Managing director Robert Moore has announced he will depart the Queensland Rugby League in October after more than 15 years’ service to the game.

Moore was first employed by the QRL as an education and development manager, before accepting a position with the State Government as the Deputy Director-General for Sport and Recreation Services.

In 2011, he returned to the QRL as the late Ross Livermore’s successor.

After guiding the organisation through an extraordinary decade of on and off field success, Moore is now committed to supporting a leadership handover and pursuing new challenges.

“By the time we reach October, it will be 10-and-a-half years in my current role and the timing of my departure has been designed to assist the QRL with the transition process,” Moore said.

“Finishing up towards the end of this year will provide the successful applicant with the opportunity to be involved in funding negotiations with the ARLC, as well as other important conversations around future governance models for the game.

“From a timing point of view, it made sense – and while it is hard to leave our people after collectively achieving so much during such a challenging period, I know I have made the right decision, both professionally and personally.

“I would like to thank my fellow directors and colleagues, as well as our clubs, leagues and partners, for their support and guidance.

“It has been a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience and I’m now looking forward to a big few months with the focus on our participants, from community footy to our statewide competitions and high performance pathways.”

Underpinning Moore’s immediate focus on community footy is finalising the implementation of the new community rugby league operating model, which has been collaboratively designed and created with the ARLC over the past three years.

“This implementation reshapes the way we support volunteers in clubs and leagues across the state and will support the game thriving across future generations,” Moore said. 

The QRL has engaged Craig Sneesby at u&u. Recruitment Partners to assist with the appointment of Moore’s replacement. 

QRL Chair Bruce Hatcher congratulated Moore on his achievements and service to the game.

“What stands out to me is Rob’s integrity and decency, as well as the level of respect our staff here have for him,” Hatcher said.

“He continues to be a great advocate for the game, and is someone who is both highly regarded and highly respected by his peers across all levels of sport and rugby league.

“Rob has never been one to seek the limelight or accolades, but behind the scenes he gets things done, and is always very measured when it comes to the big issues in the game.”

Hatcher lauded Moore’s role in assembling the QRL’s Senior Leadership Team, who have worked efficiently with all stakeholders to set the game up for the future, 12 months on from the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is a testament to Rob’s leadership that we’ve been able to grow on and off the field,” Hatcher said.

“The underpinning financial position of the QRL supports a sustainable future; and reforms made to the business have been of benefit to our members.”

Hatcher said one of Moore’s most significant achievements was his work in getting changes made to the constitution of the Australian Rugby League Commission.

“On behalf of my fellow directors, we wish Rob the very best in his future endeavours, and we hope he stays involved in rugby league in some capacity as he has a great knowledge and understanding of the game,” Hatcher said.