Nayef Abi Said has been appointed as the the new Lebanese Rugby League Federation CEO. After a three-month recruitment process, the 39-year-old becomes the organisation’s second chief executive, taking over from the long-serving previous incumbent, Remond Safi, who will now focus on his regional role with the RLEF.
Abi Said has an exemplary pedigree, having played for the Lebanese American University in their 2002, inaugural LRL season; been a founding board member of the Immortals RLFC (a club formed by LAU graduates), and elected to the LRLF Board in 2014. Hailing from Bazoun, in the north of Lebanon and living in Jounieh, the experienced businessman, Said is also fluent in Arabic, English and French. In addition to his day-to-day duties managing the staff and operations, he will chair the strategy committee in creating a new long-term plan for the federation.
“The LRLF is one of those rare institutions that reflect the true spirit of our country,” commented Abi Said, on taking up the role. “I couldn’t be more honoured to have been chosen to lead the organization.
“I believe the LRLF has a great potential,” he went on, “but to seize that we must focus clearly, continue to develop the game, and empower all those with a part to play to fulfil their passion and make a difference.”
Outgoing CEO, and administrative board member Safi said: “Nayef is well known within rugby league circles. He has the respect of all, and will do well developing the game here. I am grateful for the experience gained ned over the many years during my time at LRLF.”
The CEO appointment completes the Federation’s scheduled series of personnel additions, including the election of a new board, appointment of a new Australian entity board, a new high-performance staff including the Lebanon head coach, and three new committees.