Contender for NRL CEO role Simon McGrath ‘not interested’

One of the early favourites to replace Todd Greenberg, Accor Pacific COO Simon McGrath, has pulled out of the running.

Accor COO Simon McGrath. Picture: Jerad Williams

One of the early favourites to replace Todd Greenberg as chief executive of the NRL has pulled out of the running.

Accor Pacific chief operating officer Simon McGrath provided a statement to The Australian in which he said he had no interest in the job.

McGrath had previously been a contender for the chief executive’s role but missed out to Greenberg four years ago as the replacement for Dave Smith.

He was among those raised as a contender when Greenberg parted ways with the NRL on Monday.

However, McGrath quickly ended any talk that he could be in line to join the NRL.

“My position is that whilst I acknowledge the NRL role is so critical and worthwhile to our community, I am not interested,” he said.

Broncos CEO Paul White. Picture: Peter Wallis

“My role heading Accor Hotels, as the leading hotel operator, is one that I remain very loyal to. Now, more than ever, I have a responsibility to lead.

“That being said Accor Hotels has a very deep history with the NRL and we intend to play a major role in the rebuild of the code.”

Brisbane chief executive Paul White has also been linked with the role – his contract at the Broncos comes to an end later this year.

White said his sole focus at the moment was on getting the Broncos through an unprecedented time in the game’s history and ensuring rugby league returns to the field as quickly as possible.

In a statement released through the club, the Broncos said: “Nor will he be doing any media until after there is a definitive way forward for the completion and all details have been finalised.

“Paul thanks you for your interest but he has done a range of media over recent weeks and now wants to focus on his job at the Broncos.”