Matt Phelan Named Acting CEO of Parramatta Eels after Edwards Departure

Matt Phelan has taken on a temporary position as acting CEO of Parramatta Eels less than 24 hours after Ken Edwards left the National Rugby League club.

Phelan joined the Eels in February as general manager of operations and strategy and has over 20 years experience in sports administration.

He becomes the fourth person to fill the position since 2009, after the club said on Tuesday Edwards had left by ‘mutual consent’ as a result of a change of strategic direction following the installation of the new board in May.

“Our primary focus for the remainder of the year is to ensure that the Parramatta Eels are working hard both on and off the field,” Phelan said in a statement on Wednesday.

“This has been a tough year for our organisation, but we owe it to our members and fans to remain dedicated to making this a club they are proud to call their own.”

The search for a new CEO has already begun, but Eels chairman Steve Sharp said the club was in no rush to find a permanent replacement.

“We will not rush this decision, as we need to make sure we find an individual best suited to implement our club’s strategy for the future,” Sharp said.