‘It’s a great honour to be given this role’: Ben Ikin unveiled as new QRL CEO

The reason behind Ben Ikin’s sudden departure from the Brisbane Broncos has been revealed.

Ben Ikin has left the Broncos to take up the role of chief executive at the Queensland Rugby League. Picture; Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Ben Ikin has been unveiled as the new chief executive officer of the Queensland Rugby League board just a day after he left the Broncos.

The former representative player had previously spent time as an independent director on the QRL board but stepped down from the role in 2021 to become Brisbane’s head of football operations.

Ikin will step into the new role on May 22, the same day the Maroons team will be announced for the men’s State of Origin series opener.

Ben Ikin’s arrival in late 2021 has helped the Broncos immensely on and off the field. Picture: John Gass

“It’s a great honour to be given this role,” Ikin said.

“The QRL has a very long, proud history and is responsible for a very important part of rugby league across the state.

“I look forward to working with our staff and stakeholders to ensure that the way we do things in Queensland is both preserved and respected.”

Ikin played 17 games for Queensland before he turned his attention to the media where he excelled ahead of his full-time switch to administration.

Ikin is no stranger to the QRL having represented his state on and off the field for a number of years. Picture: Anthony Weate.

“Ben brings an immense amount of rugby league knowledge with him and is widely respected in the game,” QRL chairman Bruce Hatcher said.

“Part of our role in the game is from community rugby league to sub-elite, which is the Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership, and the significant contribution our clubs make to the NRL and NRLW.

“Ben has a thorough understanding of our people and these competitions and pathways and knows what is needed for rugby league to grow and prosper in the years to come.”