PNG Hunters have announced the re-appointment Scott Barker as CEO for the 2022 season.
Barker has completed his first Intrust Super Cup season as general manager, guiding the Hunters through a challenging year which saw them move operations to Queensland because of COVID restrictions.
PNG Hunters chairman Stan Joyce CSM was pleased Barker would remain at the helm, noting his work during the 2021 season positioned the Hunters well for a strong 2022 return.
“We are delighted to reappoint Scott Barker after working closely with him through this 2021 season. I congratulate him on the appointment,” Mr Joyce said.
“It wasn’t an easy year due to the challenges of COVID, but Scott and his team ensured that the Hunters took a positive step forward, leaving us well placed to continue that journey in 2022.
“With coach Matt Church already reappointed along with Scott, we now very much look forward to the next season.”
Hunters board member and Asia Pacific Rugby League Chief Operating Officer Jeremy Edwards also welcomed the re-appointment.
“I was fortunate to work closely with Scott throughout 2021 and saw his professionalism and dedication towards the Hunters,” Mr Edwards said.
“Scott has a very strong rugby league background. We are fortunate that he brings that expertise to the Hunters.
“It’s been great to watch the development of the Hunters through this year and we look forward to that continuing in the next season.”
Barker has spent just over two decades working in professional rugby league at all levels of the game. This has included time with the Broncos, Dragons, Knights, Queensland Maroons, France, Kangaroos and England.
Before Barker joined the Hunters, he consulted to the National Rugby League, analysing emerging trends in the game.
“I am genuinely honoured and excited to be reappointed to this role and to continue the work we started this year, Barker said.
"I thoroughly enjoyed working closely with Chairman Stan Joyce, PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina and also day-to-day with Jeremy Edwards,” Barker said.
“This has been a very challenging year for many reasons, but also a very enjoyable and rewarding year for me personally.
"I can’t speak highly enough of the commitment shown by the Hunters players and staff to be away from home for eight months.
“I’d also like to sincerely thank our sponsors and fans back home who made a tough year a lot more enjoyable through their continuous and passionate support.
“We’re very much looking forward to a bigger and better 2022 season.”
