Norths Devils have announced that experienced rugby league administrator Troy Rovelli will join the club as Chief Executive Officer for the 2019 season.
Rovelli will join the Devils in February 2019 after completing his role as CEO of the Mackay Cutters who paid tribute to their departing CEO.
He will replace Terry Reader, who will return to a senior executive role at the Brisbane Broncos after his secondment with the Devils.
“We’ve been very fortunate to have Terry at the club for the last 12 months – he has been an outstanding CEO and he’s really moved our club into a new dimension,” Devils Chairman Peter Fraser said.
“We’re delighted to have secured someone of Troy’s standing to take over as CEO. He’s highly regarded for his work with the Cutters and he comes to Bishop Park with extensive experience in many levels of the game.”
Rovelli was a representative player in north Queensland before leaving the game to begin a business career. During that time, he was based in Brisbane and working with the great Arthur Beetson as a recruitment officer for the Sydney Roosters.
Rovelli moved to Sydney in 2005 to become the Roosters’ General Manager of Football for three years before returning to his native Mackay and eventually taking the role at the Cutters.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at the Cutters. They’ve been a great club to be a part of and I wish them well,” Rovelli said.
“I’m really looking forward to joining the Devils – I’m aware of the club’s great tradition, its history and the many outstanding players who have worn the jersey.
“This is a new challenge for me at Norths and I’m certainly looking forward to getting involved with a club that took some very positive steps in 2018 on and off the field.”
Rovelli has family ties in Brisbane and is looking forward to moving back to the city where he worked at senior levels. His sons Grant and Josh played rugby league for many years, reaching Intrust Super Cup level together while Grant also played almost 100 NRL matches with the North Queensland Cowboys and New Zealand Warriors.
Terry Reader will remain in his role as CEO until early February when he will return to the Brisbane Broncos.
“Fortunately, Terry has indicated he will remain involved with Norths in the coming years including through his role with the Broncos so his insights and energy still serve Norths,” Peter Fraser said.
“We thank the Broncos for allowing Terry to come our way for this very important time for the club. The club championship that we won this year was a strong indication on the progress that has been made.”
