I’m not here to build my CV, says new Drua CEO

There was pin drop silence at the Fijian Drua headquarters in Nadi yesterday when legendary Wallabies flanker Jeff Miller walked in as their new chief executive officer (CEO).

The 63-year-old played 26 Tests for Australia alongside Wallaby greats of Mark Loane, Tony Shaw and ace goal-kicker Paul McLean. The never-say-die ball hunter played for the Wallabies when they won the 1991 Rugby World Cup in England.

That aura of being a goal-getter was felt right from the welcoming ceremony where he challenged the players, coaches and staff to be the best version of themselves. He demanded for their total commitment in this season’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.

“No excuses,” Miller said.

“Contribute positively to the success of this club.”

The former Queensland Reds captain said he was proud to lead the Drua.

“When I was appointed, I read a comment on social media from a local Fijian who said they hoped I wasn’t taking this role to advance my CV,” Miller said.

“I can tell you from my heart, that’s the furthest thing from the truth. At my age, I’m not trying to advance my CV. I accepted this role because I have a passion for rugby, a passion for how Fijians play rugby and a deep respect for Fijian culture and people.”

Miller said mistakes were part of the growth process but stressed the importance of learning from them.

“We need to learn from our mistakes, so they don’t happen again,” he said.

He said two things were especially important to him — respect for traditional culture and enjoying the game.

Miller said he wanted to use his experience as a player, coach, administrator, and board member to help strengthen the club.

“When I eventually leave, I want assure the club will be in a much better place,” he said.

Miller acknowledged the hard work that had gone into building the Drua but said the goal remained unfulfilled. “We still haven’t won a title yet,” he said.

“My vision — and I know it’s shared by the staff — is to win Super Rugby titles. If we can do that, we will inspire the nation and change lives for the better.”

He said success would require unity, discipline, and an 80-minute effort.

“Winning Super Rugby titles is never easy. It takes hard work, commitment, playing for each other and for the fans,” Miller said.

“You need skill and Fijian flair but also discipline and the ability to be uncomfortable at times. It requires an 80-minute performance — something we haven’t always been good at in the past — and the mindset to withstand pressure.”

Miller said values such as discipline, resilience, unity, and attitude needed to be lived, not just displayed.