David Perry will take on the role of general manager of the Manly Sea Eagles on a new three-year contract.
The new title is similar to the one given to Phil Gould, who recently became the supremo of the Penrith Panthers.
The move was ratified at a fiery board meeting at Manly Leagues Club last night, despite resistance from the Penn family directors, part-owners of the club. The motion was carried four votes to three.







Derided as a rookie CEO in some quarters, Perry helped guide the club to a premiership in his first year, retained the majority of the players who contributed to the feat and helped get the club back into the black off the field.
"Obviously the board have voted to renew the contract for David Perry, whose position will now be general manager of the club," said Quantum boss Phil Sidney, who is also the spokesperson for the board.
"The contract hasn't fully been signed off as yet, but the board has approved the contract in principle for another three years.
"We believe David has done an exceptional job since coming to the club, especially through some trying periods.
"In his time at the club he has helped to turn it around financially. We are now getting into a position where, in the coming year, it will operate profitably or in the break-even position without any propagation payments from the Leagues Club.
"He's had a lot of bad press but we're very proud of his achievements.
"He's been maligned as a rookie CEO - quite frankly, if anyone deserves a medal, it's him as rookie of the year."
It's understood that the three directors who voted against Perry extension were chairman Scott Penn, Peter Peters and Kerry Chrysiliou.


Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/sea-eagles-sign-perry-to-new-deal-20120629-217k6.html#ixzz1zA9wPtR3