WRU boss Abi Tierney unveils new ‘streamlined’ executive team

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is to reduce its executive leadership team from nine roles to five as part of a restructure.

The new set-up will consist of a chief operating officer, chief people officer, director of the community game, director of professional rugby and chief growth officer.

The WRU is in the process of recruiting for the latter two posts, director of professional rugby and chief growth officer, which is a new position.

“This new streamlined executive structure gives us a more efficient and more targeted leadership team, as well as giving us the opportunity to bring world-class capability into the organisation,” said WRU chief executive Abi Tierney.

Lydia Stirling, who is currently people director, will become chief people officer, with the WRU’s governance function now reporting to this role.

Leighton Davies’ role of chief financial officer will become chief operating officer, taking added responsibility for all operational aspects of the business, including Principality Stadium, the WRU legal team and company secretary duties.

Following Nigel Walker’s departure as executive director of rugby in December, responsibilities for the professional and community games in Wales are currently split between interim performance director Huw Bevan and community director Geraint John.