Banker named new NRL Chief Executive

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has announced that senior banking executive Dave Smith will succeed David Gallop as Chief Executive of the organisation and the National Rugby League (NRL).
Smith currently serves as Chief Executive of Lloyds International and will assume his new position with the NRL from 1st February 2013. Gallop resigned from the post in June, with the surprise announcement being made with the League in the middle of negotiating a crucial new domestic broadcast deal.
Smith has reportedly landed the role as head of Australian rugby league after it was rejected by AFL Chief Operating Officer Gillon McLachlan.
ARL Commission Chairman John Grant welcomed Smith as the right man to lead rugby league forward, stating "this is a person who knows business, who knows how to lead, who loves sport, who is culturally suited to our game and who has a very strong sense of community."
"We've spent a lot of time talking with Dave and I can tell you that we are certain he will do a fantastic job for our game."
Welshman Smith moved to Australia nine years ago and currently has responsibility for managing Lloyds International, which has global assets of $50 billion.
Explaining his change of industry, Smith stated "I decided 18 months ago to change direction and to look for opportunities in sports management and have been waiting for the right opportunity.
"This role has everything I could want and I am really looking forward to getting started. It is a chance to make a real difference at a time when rugby league is looking to grow to a new level. I have some relevant skills in building and driving business outcomes and I look forward to working with the clubs, the players, the fans and all stakeholders.
"I'm absolutely thrilled to be a part of the rugby league family.
"I feel a real sense of excitement and duty in taking on the chief executive role at such an exciting point for the game and the NRL.
"It's a chance to make a real difference at a time when rugby league is looking to grow to a new level.
"The role has everything I could want and I am really looking forward to getting started.
"I think I have got the best job in Australia."
Smith has played rugby union all his life and has been accused of not being a rugby league game.
Shane Mattiske will continue as the interim Chief Executive until Smith takes up the post while Gallup is now Chief Executive of Football Federation Australia.