NZR Board confirm new structure for New Zealand Rugby

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has announced a significant structural overhaul aimed at streamlining its governance and aligning its commercial and operational functions under a single leadership model.

Currently, NZR’s commercial interests are managed through New Zealand Rugby Commercial (NZRC), which operates with a separate board and executive team. Under the new structure, NZR will transition to a unified organisational model led by one chief executive officer and a consolidated executive leadership team.

As part of the changes, a newly created role of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) will be introduced. This position will work closely with the NZR CEO and the NZRC Board to develop and execute a long-term commercial growth strategy.

NZRC’s board will also be restructured. NZR Chair David Kirk will now serve as Chair of the NZRC Board, which will comprise three NZR directors, two directors from private equity partner Silver Lake, one representative from the New Zealand Rugby Players’ Association (NZRPA), and one independent director.

Former All Black Richie McCaw will continue to represent NZRPA, while Ian Narev will remain as the board’s independent director. Departing independent directors Gina Brogi and Rob Fyfe were thanked for their service.

Kirk said the changes are designed to simplify NZR’s governance structure and better integrate commercial efforts with the broader goals of the sport, including fielding competitive teams and fostering collaboration with Provincial Unions and the Māori Rugby Board.

He also acknowledged Silver Lake’s ongoing involvement, highlighting the value of their global expertise and networks in NZR’s efforts to grow its international footprint and fan engagement.

The organisation has now commenced recruitment for several key executive roles, including Chief Executive Officer, Chief Commercial Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, as part of its future leadership transition.

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