The new deal will take affect from July 2nd as the Tigers outlined in a press release on Friday morning announcing the news.

This is a fantastic opportunity for me to assist this club win its second premiership, and I look forward to working with Benji and the team to achieve that goal,” Richardson said.

“Wests Tigers is a family club with fiercely loyal members and a huge supporter base.

“We’re on a journey, come with us.”

Richardson, who was appointed to the role on an interim basis last December, quickly signalled his desire to turn the fortunes of the Tigers around.

Under new coach and former player Benji Marshall, the Tigers have won two from six games in 2024.

After two straight wooden spoon seasons, there is a sense of renewed hope around the club with the likes of Api Koriosau, Jahream Bula and exciting rookie Lachlan Galvin leading the way.

They are also set to add Penrith stars Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva from 2025.

Marshall spoke about his excitement over the move from the Tigers to make Richardson permanent.

“I’ve been really impressed with Richo, and I think this is really big news for our club that he’s committed long term,” Marshall said on Friday morning.

“To me, it means he sees a future and a vision for the future of our club.

“What I love about Richo is that there’s no nonsense about what he does. There’s complete transparency and honesty, and he’s brought an experience to the club where he’s had success in the past and turned around unsuccessful clubs before.

“I love working with him, he’s been great to deal with, and from a club perspective, it’s great moving forward for us.

“He brings a skill set that our club needed and he’s brought a real clear sense of direction.

“Along with the board, I feel like we’re heading in the right direction.”

Tigers interim chairman Barry O’Farrell said the decision to lock down Richardson was a ‘no brainer’.

“Shane has done a tremendous job since taking over as Interim CEO, impressing supporters, staff and sponsors,” said interim chair Barry O’Farrell.

“It was a ‘no brainer’ for the board to secure his services for the future. No club can afford to let champions go, whether on the field or in the front office.”

Richardson was previously the general manager of the Rabbitohs, Sharks and Panthers.

It was reported by The Daily Telegraph that Souths owner Russell Crowe wanted Richardson to return to Souths to help the club out of the hole they are in, however the experienced administrator is keen to make his mark at the Tigers.