Ben Ikin has confirmed he will not seek the position of National Rugby League (NRL) chief executive following Andrew Abdo’s announced departure. Ikin, who resigned as chairman of the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) just two weeks ago, addressed speculation linking him to the NRL’s top role amid Abdo’s move to lead Tennis Australia.

In his first public comments since leaving the QRL, Ikin dismissed reports of discord with the QRL board and ruled out becoming the new NRL CEO, a role reportedly valued at $1.5 million annually. Despite a strong working relationship with ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys and recognition for his leadership at the QRL, Ikin said he had already committed to a different career path outside rugby league.

“I have committed to another role outside of rugby league,” Ikin said, noting he will officially step away from the QRL after the upcoming State of Origin series. He cited personal and logistical reasons for not pursuing the NRL CEO position, highlighting the difficulty of relocating from Brisbane to Sydney, where the NRL headquarters is based. Previously, Ikin balanced work in Sydney with family life in Brisbane through weekly flights, but indicated the demands of the CEO role would be greater.

Ikin praised Abdo and V’landys for their joint efforts in strengthening the NRL’s financial standing, growing league revenues from near bankruptcy during the COVID-19 pandemic to $845 million annually, with the sport approaching a $1 billion valuation. He acknowledged the complexities the new CEO will face, pointing to a highly competitive broadcast rights environment and the need to balance diverse member interests.

“There will be a lot of very capable people from inside and outside the industry applying for it,” Ikin said, adding that V’landys would remain interim CEO until a successor is chosen.

Ikin’s departure from the QRL was unexpected given his appointment three years prior and previous executive roles with the Brisbane Broncos. While rumors of tension with the QRL board had circulated, Ikin maintained there were no conflicts, describing his leadership style as direct and results-oriented rather than politically driven.

He left the QRL confident in the organisation’s strong position and capable personnel, emphasizing his preference for challenges and progression. Ikin will take on a new role as group CEO of a rapidly growing property technology firm. This move into a different sector came after discussions initiated by the company’s young co-founders and was not actively pursued by Ikin himself.

Though stepping away from direct rugby league administration, Ikin said he intends to stay connected to the sport, particularly through involvement with the Maroons Foundation, which has been a focus of his during recent years. “The game is in my bones,” he said, indicating his ongoing passion for rugby league despite the career change.