Rabbitohs CFO Joe Kelly appointed CEO of the Sea Eagles

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have today congratulated Chief Financial Officer Joe Kelly on his new role as Chief Executive Officer of the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles.

Mr Kelly has given the Rabbitohs eight years of quality service since joining the Club in 2007, and has now decided to progress his career as he takes on the CEO role at Manly.

"On behalf of the entire South Sydney Rabbitohs organisation I would like to congratulate Joe on his new position with Manly and thank him for his eight years of service to our Club," Rabbitohs CEO Shane Richardson said.

"Joe has been one of the driving forces behind the off-field success we've had as a Club during his tenure and he will be missed at the Rabbitohs.

"He has been at the forefront of many of the off-field achievements of this Club over his eight years, he is a true professional, his legacy will be felt amongst our administration offices for a long time to come, and he will undoubtedly be a resounding success as CEO of Manly.

"Joe brought with him a fantastic knowledge of sports administration and a tremendous work ethic from his time with Chelsea Football Club in the UK, and he moves on to Manly as one of the leading sporting administrators in the NRL.

"Joe, his wife Sadie and daughter Olivia leave us at the end of November with our best wishes and we look forward to working with him and the Sea Eagles into the future."

Mr Kelly said: "It has been a privilege to be part of, and witness, the emotional celebrations of the 21st Premiership with the Rabbitohs in 2014.

"This has personally been the culmination of eight extraordinary seasons that has seen this Club transform into a viable, sustainable and competitive business, both on and off the field.

"The unwavering support I have received from the Investors, the Board led expertly by the Chairman Nick Pappas, the Player and Coaching ranks, the incredibly dedicated staff, and last but not least, CEO Shane Richardson, has made this a most rewarding experience. I have made many lasting friendships that I will cherish in to the future.

"Both past and present, I especially thank the teams that have reported to me for their loyalty, commitment and passion displayed in fulfilling their responsibilities.

"Once again, I wish everyone at the Rabbitohs all the very best for the future, and I thank you for the memories we have made together."

Mr Kelly will begin his new role at Manly on Monday 24 November.