Robert Elstone confirmed as new Super League Chief Executive
Super League has confirmed the appointment of former Everton CEO Robert Elstone as Chief Executive.
Elstone started his role this week and brings a wealth of experience following his role in several Senior Executive and Board positions, most recently Premier League’s Everton FC.
The businessman was also a part of the Castleford Tigers before resigning from his position in 2007, allowing him to focus on Everton, where he was appointed Director in 2016.
Having studied Economics at Hull University, he moved to Sydney to continue his accountancy career for two years before returning to the UK and taking up a position at the RFL supporting its Chief Executive with roles on the 1995 Rugby League World Cup, the formation of the Super League and the first year of the brave venture into France, with PSG Rugby League.
Elstone takes over the role left vacant by Nigel Wood, who stood down as Rugby Football League Chief Executive at the start of 2018. Wood served ten years in the post and took up the role as Rugby League International Federation CEO.
On the appointment, Elstone said:“I would like to thank the Super League clubs for giving me the opportunity to shape the future of a sport I have watched and loved for as long as I can remember. I can’t wait to get started and I’m ready to apply all my energies and experience to drive the Betfred Super League forward.
“Like so many sports, we face many challenges. However, we take with us a greater number of much sought-after advantages and attributes, not least our players, our fans, our great clubs and the heritage and values of a fantastic sport. If we can bring all that together I’m confident that the Game can look forward to a bigger and better future.”
Chairman of Super League, Brian Barwick, added: “I am delighted to welcome Robert back into the sport. He is a great enthusiast of Rugby League and has also worked extensively in the wider business of professional sport.
“The combination of those two assets should prove to be very positive for the ongoing development of the Betfred Super League. Senior Rugby Football League colleagues look forward to working with Robert and I wish him much success in his new role.”