In August 2018, Max Donnelly stepped down as chairman of the Parramatta Eels, marking a significant transition in the club’s leadership.onnelly had been appointed as the administrator of the Parramatta Leagues Club in July 2016, following a tumultuous period for the Eels, including a salary cap scandal that led to the dismissal of the previous board.is tenure was characterized by efforts to stabilize the club’s finances and implement governance reforms.citeturn0search0
pon his resignation, Donnelly expressed confidence in the club’s renewed stability and governance structure.e stated, “When I arrived at the club there were numerous issues and unresolved challenges that needed to be addressed, and I am delighted to say that the vast majority of those are no longer factors or hurdles that will affect the club’s progress moving forward.”
ean McElduff, a former senior executive at Westpac Institutional Bank and a current board member, was unanimously endorsed as Donnelly’s successor.cElduff’s appointment was seen as a continuation of the club’s efforts to maintain financial stability and strong governance.onnelly remained on the Eels’ board as one of the two leagues club-nominated directors, ensuring continuity in leadership.
eflecting on his tenure, Donnelly highlighted the club’s achievements in enacting constitutional reform and stabilizing its financial position.e acknowledged the disappointment in the team’s on-field performance in 2018 but expressed pride in establishing a board and management team focused on strategic improvement.
his leadership change was part of a broader effort to rebuild the Parramatta Eels’ reputation and performance following the challenges of previous years.he club aimed to move forward with a renewed focus on governance and strategic planning under McElduff’s chairmanship.
