LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Penrith Panthers are facing another significant departure as CEO Brian Fletcher announces his retirement effective 2026.
Fletcher, who has served as CEO and director for the past 15 years, is stepping down at age 71.
His decision comes amidst a period where the four-straight premiership team has already seen notable players leave, including Jarome Luai, Stephen Crichton, Api Koroisau, and Matt Burton.
Club Chairman Peter Graham expressed gratitude for Fletcher's contributions, stating, "On behalf of the Panthers Group board, I want to sincerely thank Brian for his tireless service to the Panthers." He emphasized that Fletcher's leadership over the past decade has solidified the club's success and long-term viability.
The club released a statement highlighting Fletcher's vital role in shaping the Panthers' organization, particularly during their most successful era.
His involvement has spanned across various facets of the Panthers Group, including rugby league operations and community engagement initiatives.
Following his announcement, the club will begin a formal search for a new CEO to guide the organization into its next chapter.
Fletcher has been instrumental in establishing the Panthers as a powerhouse in the NRL, notably spearheading the creation of a high-performance academy in 2016, which has since produced numerous championship-winning players.
He also played a key role in bringing Peter V'landys to the Australian Rugby League Commission, leveraging their connections in horse racing, and is widely recognized as one of the top administrators in Australian sports.
Reflecting on his tenure, Fletcher stated, "the focus from a football department point of view has always been about building good young men and champion footballers - and that success would then follow." He added, "I've enjoyed being a small part in the four successful premierships.
There have been a lot of great people in that success."
As the Panthers prepare for the next chapter, the impact of Fletcher's departure is expected to be significant, given his legacy of fostering talent and ensuring the club's ongoing achievements on and off the field.