Rugby League Central was in crisis on Wednesday after news of Kind's shock departure was broken to staff, exactly a month out from the season opener. The governing body conducted an investigation into the veteran administrator, one of the longest serving employees at head office.

In an email sent to staff at 5pm, NRL chief executive Dave Smith outlined the reasons for Kind's dismissal.

"Today, Paul Kind has been dismissed from his role," Smith wrote.

"The decision has been made following an internal investigation which determined breaches of the NRL Code of Conduct and direct conflicts of interest.

"We understand that for many of you, Paul has been a long-term colleague and staff member. However, the fact is all staff at the NRL must meet our professional obligations and high standards at all times. It is what our stakeholders and fans expect of us as we modernise the game – whether we're out on the playing field or here at Rugby League Central.

"It's also what's fairest to all of us.

"We will not be making any comment about the details of this matter and we ask that Paul's right to privacy and confidentiality be respected.

"We will immediately begin recruitment for the Head of Commercial role. In the interim, the Major Events function will report to the CEO, Commercial functions to the CFO and Sponsorship to the COO.

"As part of making the game strong and healthy going forward, we have had a big year in 2014 and have another one in front of us in 2015. Regardless of the challenge, our focus must remain on that role."

Following the formation of the independent commission, the NRL formed an integrity unit to ensure that the behaviour of players and clubs is beyond reproach. However, the fact that they have had to sack one of their own for code of conduct breaches is a scandal the game can ill afford so close to the official kick-off of the season.

Prior to the recent appointment of former South Sydney boss Shane Richardson, the NRL had been criticised for a perceived lack of football knowledge in its Moore Park headquarters. There has been a large turnover of staff in recent years, including former COO Jim Doyle, salary cap auditor Ian Schubert, head of communications John Brady, community relations director Trish Crews, media managers Dave Taylor and Tracie Edmonson, and public relations officer Anna Wallin.

However, the departure of Kind, one of the longest serving employees, in these circumstances will rock an administration under pressure to justify huge executive salaries.

Attempts to contact Kind were unsuccessful.