The Perth Bears have appointed Katie Roberts as the club’s inaugural General Manager of Commercial, as the new West Australian club NRL builds its foundation team.
Roberts joins from Racing and Wagering WA (RWWA), where she spent more than seven years leading marketing, sponsorship and digital initiatives across TABtouch and Racing WA.
With more than 25 years of experience across sport, wagering, media and retail, Roberts will work with Perth Bears CEO Anthony De Ceglie to establish the commercial and community frameworks for the new club.
De Ceglie said: “Katie’s track record of driving growth, building high-performing teams, and fostering strong community connections makes her the ideal leader to drive the Bears’ commercial strategy.”
“She will be instrumental in shaping the fan experience, growing membership, and building partnerships that will help establish the Bears as a powerhouse in the NRL.”
Roberts said the opportunity to be part of the Bears’ foundation team was too special to pass up.
“It’s a rare privilege to help create a sporting brand from the ground up,” Roberts said.
“We’re not just launching a team; we’re building a community that will inspire pride and passion for years to come.”
The Perth Bears, announced earlier this year, are on track to become Perth’s newest professional NRL team, representing a significant expansion for rugby league in Western Australia.
With Roberts leading the commercial arm, the club is now well-positioned to attract top-tier sponsors, grow its membership base, and engage a new generation of fans.
Top image: Katie Roberts