Premiership-winning former Knights captain Paul Harragon, the chairman of the club’s football advisory board, has been appointed to represent the Knights at functions including meetings of NRL chairmen.

‘‘Paul’s passion for the club and the game will ensure he is a major contributor at all levels,’’ Knights owner Nathan Tinkler said.

‘‘This is a unique appointment that will showcase his business acumen, love of the game from grassroots through to the highest level, and his passion for Newcastle and the game’s history.’’

Tinkler said Edwards, the former HSG executive chairman and one of the key figures in seeing Tinkler’s take-over bid to fruition, had resigned to spend more time with his family in Sydney.

‘‘We thank Ken for his contribution from the exciting embryonic period in which we took over the Jets; coordination of the LA Galaxy visit and winning the ownership vote for the Knights, to the club’s recent hosting of rugby league and netball Tests in Newcastle and the appointment of Wayne Bennett,’’ Tinkler said.

HSG chief executive Troy Palmer will represent the Jets and HSG in dealings with Football Federation Australia and the A-League.