The NRL has sacked its Head of Commercial Paul Kind after an internal investigation found the staffer had breached the Code of Conduct for administration.
CEO Dave Smith said that the investigation had revealed breaches of the Code, as well as a “direct conflict of interest” involving Mr Kind.
The Sydney Morning Herald has uncovered an email sent by Smith to NRL staff on the sacking.
“Today, Paul Kind has been dismissed from his role,” Smith said.
“The decision has been made following an internal investigation which determined breaches of the NRL Code of Conduct and direct conflicts of interest.
“We understand that for many of you, Paul has been a long-term colleague and staff member. However, the fact is all staff at the NRL must meet our professional obligations and high standards at all times. It is what our stakeholders and fans expect of us as we modernise the game – whether we’re out on the playing field or here at Rugby League Central.
“It’s also what’s fairest to all of us.
“We will not be making any comment about the details of this matter and we ask that Paul’s right to privacy and confidentiality be respected.
“As part of making the game strong and healthy going forward, we have had a big year in 2014 and have another one in front of us in 2015. Regardless of the challenge, our focus must remain on that role.”
Smith said in a statement that the move showed the NRL wanted to uphold the highest standards, and was the reason for the sacking.
“Our staff know the rules and must adhere to them at all times,” Mr Smith said.
“We will not be making any comment about the details of the matter and we ask that Paul’s privacy and confidentiality be respected.
“We will begin recruitment for a new Head of Commercial immediately.
“In the interim, Paul’s roles will be undertaken by the Chief Operating Officer (sponsorship), the Chief Financial Officer (commercial functions) and myself (major events).
“We had a highly successful 2014 and are determined to maintain our focus of achieving an even better year in 2015.”
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