Wests Tigers will undergo a major overhaul off the field heading into 2024, with the entire board – including chairman Lee Hagipantelis – dismissed by the club, effective immediately.
The club's shareholders have tentatively agreed to the mass changes at board level following a recent in-depth review, with CEO Justin Pascoe also handing in his resignation on Tuesday.
Former NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell will return to the club in an interim capacity as chairman, while highly-regarded operator Shane Richardson will also be involved in the revamp as the interim CEO.
The news comes after years of on-field and off-field issues plaguing the Tigers, leading to a recent change in coaching structure with Benji Marshall taking over from Tim Sheens.
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Lee Hagipantelis, Justin Pascoe axed by Wests Tigers
In a statement released on Tuesday afternoon, the club confirmed the departures of Hagipantelis, Pascoe and the remainder of the board.
Holman Barnes Group chairman Tony Andreacchio thanked the pair for their service at Concord.
"We are determined to be successful for our members and fans and that process begins in the front office," Andreacchio said.
"Lee and Justin faced enormous challenges, but they have left a legacy which gives us a strong base for the future.
"In particular, they leave us with a world class Centre of Excellence and the club is in a stronger financial position because of the relationships they established with sponsors and other supporters."
The changes are still subject to legal approvals.
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Interim chairman Farrell was previously the full-time chairman in 2019 before accepting an opportunity as High Commissioner to India.
Alongside him, Interim CEO Richardson possesses notable experience in the rugby league world.
He was the Penrith Panthers' CEO from 2002-2004, with the club winning the premiership in 2003.
Richardson also held the same role with the South Sydney Rabbitohs from 2004 to 2015, with the club winning the premiership in 2014.
A new interim board has been appointed as the club implements the review recommendations.
The board has been reduced from seven to four members.
O'Farrell will be joined by three Wests Tigers shareholders – David Gilbert (Holman Barnes Group), Danny Stapleton (Balmain Tigers Chairman) and a nomination from the Wests Magpies.
