Just a day after being cleared of any misconduct by the Parramatta board, Eels CEO Paul Osbourne has announced his intention to step down at the end of the year due to a strained relationship with the club’s major sponsor, Pirtek.
After facing a month-long inquiry regarding allegations of financial irregularities and staff harassment, Osborne was found not guilty on several counts following an investigation conducted by Eels deputy chairman Sid Kelly, director Mario Libertini, and club solicitor Bryan Belling.
The issue was triggered last month with the resignation of Glenn Duncan, a former director and the head of Pirtek, the club’s major sponsor. Duncan criticized the board for their inaction regarding the troubled chief executive amidst increasing allegations.
In a statement released by the club, Osborne expressed, “I appreciate the board’s fair hearing concerning the issues of the past month.”
“Though I am relieved to have been cleared by the board’s inquiry, I feel it is the appropriate time for me to move on.”
“Clearly, a working relationship between myself and the club’s principal naming rights sponsor Pirtek is no longer feasible, and this significantly influences my decision.”
“Today, I discussed my decision with Sid Kelly, and I am thankful that the board has consented to my request to conclude my time with the club.”
“I extend my gratitude to Roy Spagnolo and the board for their unwavering support, and I will continue to give my best until my departure at the end of the year.”
Osborne will continue in his position until Christmas, with Parramatta Leagues Club head Bob Bentley set to take over, potentially alongside former Eels five-eighth Michael Buettner.
Duncan, whose company Pirtek sponsors the club until the end of 2013, with a three-year extension option thereafter, stated that Osborne’s resignation would benefit the club.
“If that resignation occurs, I feel it’s a positive outcome for the club,” Duncan remarked.
“I am pleased for the fans that my actions have clearly prompted the board to scrutinize the well-publicized indiscretions from the past few weeks.”
Additionally, Osborne was investigated following a complaint from a female employee alleging that he had mistreated her for discussing a purported relationship he had with another female colleague. Although the board acknowledged the complaint, they concluded there were insufficient grounds for further action.
by Terence Johns
