Under-fire Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe quits as board dismissed

Wests Tigers picked up the past two wooden spoons and handed the reins to rookie coach Benji Marshall for the 2024 season. Photo / Photosport.nz

Wests Tigers are embarking on their most radical shake-up in years, with chief executive Justin Pascoe resigning from his role after the club’s board was dismissed.

After 12 years without an NRL finals appearance, the board’s controlling faction ordered a review over the off-season into the Tigers’ continual struggles.

The club picked up the past two wooden spoons and handed the reins to rookie coach Benji Marshall for the 2024 season, after club powerbrokers voiced concern about their direction under Tim Sheens.

The review has led to Pascoe’s resignation and the exit of board chair Lee Hagipantelis, both of whom have been under immense pressure from fans over recent seasons.

A section of supporters held protests over their leadership throughout last season, which ended with the club picking up just four wins.

Pascoe has overseen the club’s move to their new centre of excellence, but has come under fire for the revolving door of coaches and the Tigers’ failings in the transfer market.

Hagipantelis has been dismissed from a role he had held since 2019 despite his company, Brydens Lawyers, being the club’s biggest sponsor in a deal that runs until the end of next season.

Former NSW premier Barry O’Farrell is expected to be installed as interim chair, with Shane Richardson likely to come on board as replacement for Pascoe in the short term.