Jason King has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Manly Sea Eagles, succeeding Tony Mestrov, who will step down from the role next month. King, a former premiership-winning prop who played all 239 of his games for Manly and the Northern Eagles, is set to take the helm early next year. This announcement was made on Wednesday, just a day after Mestrov confirmed his departure.
King’s impressive career in rugby league began as a local junior, where he established himself as a reliable player from 2001 to 2014. After retiring, he transitioned into administration within the NRL, where he became the head of the integrity unit in 2022. In addition to his administrative role, King is also a practising solicitor. His deep ties to the club are underscored by his status as a life member and former captain.
In expressing his excitement about the new position, King stated, “It’s an incredible honour to be appointed the next chief executive of the Sea Eagles. This club has been a defining part of my life and I feel humbled to return in this leadership role. I am deeply grateful to the club’s ownership and Board for the trust they have placed in me and for the opportunity to serve a club that means so much to me and the community.”
Need for Stability at Manly
King’s appointment marks a significant moment for the Sea Eagles, who are now on their seventh CEO in just over eleven years. The club is striving for stability as it prepares for the upcoming season, particularly with Daly Cherry-Evans set to miss out as halfback for the first time since his debut in 2011. Additionally, star player Tom Trbojevic has recently signed a one-season extension with the team, while expressing interest in a future in England.
The Sea Eagles face a challenging period ahead, with key players such as Reuben Garrick off contract at the end of 2026, and last season’s standout, Tolu Koula, having an option to explore opportunities elsewhere for 2027. Coach Anthony Seibold managed to maintain his position despite facing pressure during a rough patch this year, while the club is expected to have funds available in the 2027 salary cap, particularly aimed at strengthening the forward line.
Chairman Scott Penn expressed his confidence in King, saying, “As a past captain, playing over 200 games for the Club, makes Jason the perfect candidate to bring the Sea Eagles’ new strategic plan to life. We are delighted to welcome Jason back to the Club as CEO as we celebrate our 80th year in 2026.”
With King at the helm, the Sea Eagles are hopeful that his leadership will guide them through a transformative period, ensuring that the organization can build on its storied history while addressing the challenges ahead.
