Titans lose CEO to NRL

Gold Coast Chief Executive Officer Graham Annesley has announced he will be returning to the NRL to take up the position of Head of Football - Elite Programs from October this year.

Annesley will oversee all operational aspects of the League, as well as looking after other elite programs across the country.

He held the position of CEO at the Titans for the past five years, and released a statement on the club's website on Monday about his decision to move on.

"The last 5 years have been some of the most challenging, yet satisfying times of my professional career," Annesley told titans.com.au.

"While the challenges have been well documented, I take a great deal of pride in the current health of the club both on and off the field.

"The club is now well positioned to compete with the very best in the NRL in the years ahead. We have amazingly committed owners, model independent corporate governance, talented and dedicated staff and executive team, first-class high-performance facilities, responsible and sustainable financial management, a roster full of experience and youthful potential, and a Head Coach who has all the required attributes to guide the team to success in 2019 and beyond.

"The opportunity to once again contribute across the entire game as part of the NRL administration arose unexpectedly a few weeks ago. My decision to accept the new role has not been easy as I genuinely believe this club is on the cusp of great success. However, after agonising over the decision with my wife, club owners Darryl Kelly and Rebecca Frizelle, and Executive Chairman Dennis Watt, I ultimately decided the time was right to pass the Titans baton on as the club continues to pursue its enormous potential.

"I want to thank everyone associated with the Titans for the amazing opportunity and privilege afforded to me during my time as CEO. From past and present owners, to the Board, my executive team and staff, players and football personnel, sponsors, corporate partners, members and supporters, I couldn't have asked for more support and assistance. I am going to miss everyone enormously."

Annesley will remain as the club's CEO for the next few weeks, in a bid to help with the transition to the new chief executive.