After ten years with the Parramatta Eels, I have decided that I will be stepping down as Chief Executive Officer at the end of this season.
This is a decision that has come with a great deal of reflection because this Club has meant so much to me for so long, but I feel the time is right.
In 2016, the Club was facing a difficult period in its proud history and needed to be returned to a position of strength. There were many challenges ahead, but I held a deep belief that this Club could once again become the organisation its members, fans and community deserved. Together, with the support of everyone within the Eels community, the Club has been transformed.
We have significantly strengthened the foundations of the Club. In 2022 we returned the Eels to the Grand Final stage, we have delivered record membership numbers and transformed the Club commercially by tripling revenue. Importantly, this has enabled us to invest more deeply in our men's, women's and Eels Academy football programs, strengthen our connection with the community, launch initiatives including the Eels Foundation and Eels Institute, and bring to life a world-class Centre of Excellence. These foundations all help set the Club up for the future.
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been seeing the culture that has taken shape across the Club. We have worked hard to create a place where people enjoy coming to work, look out for one another and build strong relationships. The sense of connection that exists today is something I hope continues to grow.
The Parramatta Eels has given me some of the most fulfilling moments of my professional life, but more importantly, it has shaped me as a person and given me friendships, experiences and memories that my family and I will carry with us forever.
To the Boards who entrusted me with the responsibility of leading this great Club, thank you for your commitment and belief.
To all the people that I have worked with at the Club over the last 10 years – staff, volunteers, coaches and players - thank you for your sacrifice, passion, dedication but most of all friendship. It has been an honour working with you all in a place shaped by an unwavering commitment to the Club.
To the past players and legends of the Club who I’ve been fortunate to get to know, thank you for the role you continue to play in keeping the spirit of the Club strong.
To our sponsors, partners and stakeholders who believed in our vision and helped us build a stronger Club, thank you for your support and confidence.
And above all, to our members and fans. Through every challenge, every setback and every triumph, your passion for this Club has never wavered. You are the soul of the Parramatta Eels and the reason this Club will always endure.
At a Club with a rich history and aspirations as high as ours, there is still much to achieve. There is important work ahead in the coming months to ensure our football program consistently delivers the results our members and fans deserve and I genuinely believe that the Club has the foundations and ambition to achieve that success. I am confident that whoever has the honour of taking the Club forward will build on what has been established and will enjoy the ultimate success.
The Parramatta Eels belongs to the generations of people who have worn the Blue and Gold, filled the grandstands and passed their love of this Club on to those who follow – all connected by the badge. I have been fortunate to serve as one of the Club's custodians for a period of that journey, and I look forward to watching the next chapter unfold with pride, belief and excitement for what lies ahead.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving this great Club. I will be leaving with enormous gratitude and a sense of pride, knowing the Club is far stronger now than when I arrived and well placed for the future. I look forward to a great end to the season and the opportunity to speak with many of you over the coming weeks.
Jim Sarantinos
Member # 1478933
