The Welsh Rugby Union has appointed its first female chief executive in Abi Tierney. Tierney has been director general of the HM Passport Office and UK Visas and Immigration for the past three years.
Tierney replaces Steve Phillips who resigned in January 2023 after allegations of sexism at the WRU. Tierney is due to take the post before the end of the year.
“I relish the chance to make a lasting positive difference at such a critical time,” Tierney said. “My passion and commitment for this role is unquestionable and I feel a huge sense of pride having grown up in a family where rugby has been a constant and positive force in our lives.”
Rugby has the ability to enable life chances and develop people on and off the pitch. In this role, I intend to take that heritage and the skills and learning I have gathered in my career to deliver the significant cultural advancement Welsh rugby deserves.
“I have a track record in positively shaping an organisation’s culture. I will do my utmost to promote belonging, trust, understanding and mutual support at all levels in Welsh rugby.”
Nigel Walker held an interim role but has since been appointed the WRU’s first executive director of rugby. Richard Collier-Keywood, who recently became the first WRU independent chair when he replaced the elected Ieuan Evans, said: “Abi’s appointment is a major coup for Welsh rugby.
“She has worked successfully across the private and public sectors in delivering commercial value and improving the culture of some complex organisations. “Her mantra of ‘putting customers at the heart of everything we do’ bodes well for the many fans of rugby in Wales.”
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