Parramatta Eels appoint new chief executive on same day they announce Spencer Leniu deal
Parramatta have appointed respected Super League administrator Mike Rush as the club’s new chief executive.
The Eels have settled on a replacement for Jim Sarantinos, who stepped down after a decade at the club.
It caps a big news day for Parramatta, who trumpeted the signing of Spencer Leniu on a four-year deal. The four-time premiership winner will leave the Roosters on a winning note after playing arguably his best game for the Tricolours in the grand final win over Newcastle on Sunday.
“We’re thrilled to have Spencer join the Parramatta Eels and become part of what we’re building at this club,” Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill said. “He’s one of the elite middle forwards in the game and has consistently performed on the biggest stages throughout his career.
“We’re excited to welcome Spencer and his family into the Eels community. We know he’ll make a tremendous contribution both on and off the field, and we can’t wait to see him in blue and gold.”
The Eels interviewed several candidates for the top job, and had eyed Penrith CEO Matt Cameron to take the reins. However, Cameron, who has helped transform the Panthers into a powerhouse, is committed to overseeing the club’s transition from coach Ivan Cleary to Peter Wallace at the end of 2027.
Rush stepped down as St Helens chief executive in February – a role he held for 13 years – ending a successful 27-year stint at the club.
During his term as CEO, Saints won five premierships, including an unprecedented dominance that resulted in four grand final wins between 2019 and 2022. St Helens also defeated Penrith in the 2023 World Club Challenge.
In an intriguing twist, Rush at one point tried to sign Jason Ryles as coach of the Super League powerhouse. Now Rush and Ryles will combine in a bid to turn Parramatta into a genuine contender after missing every finals series since their 2022 run to the decider against Penrith.
While the Roosters continue to celebrate their latest title, Leniu has already been spotted meeting with Eels officials. The club has already recruited Jarome Luai and Jaydn Su’A from 2027, while Knights centre Bradman Best is on their radar.
