Dragons make shock approach to South Sydney CEO as club boss ousted

The shake-up at the Dragons has moved to the front office with the club confirming it's parting ways with chief executive officer Ryan Webb.

Under new coach Shane Flanagan, St George Illawarra have changed on the field with their roster and results but that has not saved Webb's job.

"Ryan is a great person and has been a strong leader for the club," Dragons chairman Andrew Lancaster said in a club statement.

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"He took on the role during a testing time as COVID impacted the NRL, bringing in much-needed reforms and guiding us through a period of significant change over recent years.

"Ryan's efforts have set us up for continued growth. He has worked closely with the board, players, staff and fans to ensure that the Dragons will continue building into the future."

Webb said it was "an absolutely privilege and an experience I will always be proud of".

The St George Illawarra board voted on Tuesday morning to move in a new direction, with The Sydney Morning Herald reporting Souths CEO Blake Solly was approached for the role.

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Solly was appointed as South Sydney boss in 2016 with the club having mixed results on the field during that period.

The Rabbitohs finished 12th that year and in 2017 before five consecutive finals appearances, including a grand final.

The last two years have been disastrous for the club with a ninth and 16th finish, the sacking of Jason Demetriou and off-field issues.

Despite the Dragons' interest, Solly has committed to working with Wayne Bennett at the Rabbitohs.

The Dragons have confirmed Webb will remain in the role during the transition period as the search for a replacement continues.