The Sharks are pleased to announce the appointment of Barry Russell as the new Football Club Chief Executive Officer.
A former Rothman’s Medal winner and Sharks first grade player, Russell takes on the CEO role in a continuation of what has been a successful commercial and business career.
Currently the Commercial Sales and Business Development Manager of Harvey Norman Commercial, the largest franchise within the Harvey Norman Group, Russell previously worked with the NRL as Commercial Sponsorship Manager.
Sharks Chairman Dino Mezzatesta announced Russell’s appointment following an extensive interview and recruitment process.
“We had many worthy and highly qualified applicants for the position, however Barry’s business background, knowledge of the NRL and his commercial expertise, not to mention his enthusiasm and love of the Cronulla club, made him a standout amongst the candidates,” Mezzatesta said.
“We welcome him on board and look forward to him getting started, confident he will make a significant contribution towards the continued success of our Club.”
Russell reacted to his appointment with both pride and excitement.
“I have a deep understanding and passion for our club and its proud history,” Russell said. “I look forward to representing our Board, community, members and fans in building our great Club into the best in the NRL on and off the field.”
Russell played nine years with the Sharks, with his personal highlight being the 1988 Rothman’s Medal. A local junior, Russell played Matthews Cup at the Sharks in 1979, also representing the Club in the SG Ball and Jersey Flegg competitions, before being graded in 1983.
Following his playing career Russell worked with the Sharks as Junior Development Officer and Development Manager, before spending 12 years at the NRL as Commercial Sponsorship Manager.
From there he has enjoyed a successful career in Commercial Sales and Development with the Harvey Norman Group.
He will officially begin work as the Sharks CEO in early March and will make himself available to media once commencing in his new role.
The Sharks would also like to express their appreciation to Paul Eriksson for the work done in an Interim CEO role prior to Russell’s appointment.
