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ugby Australia has announced the next stage in its operational restructure, in an effort to reduce $15 million in operating costs over the coming months.
As part of the restructure, Rugby Australia chief business officer, Simon Rabbitt, has left Rugby Australia, and Adam Foulsham has been appointed chief operating officer, with Foulsham set to absorb the finance, legal and information technology teams across Rugby Australia.
The move is the latest from Rugby Australia as they continue to try repair the damage dealt over recent years with the planning of a new domestic rugby competition in replacement of the struggling Super Rugby competition.
Rugby Australia interim chief executive, Rob Clarke, said Foulsham’s latest role as chief financial officer at marketing agency Wunderman Thompson saw him lead all financial functions of the $1.3 billion group and save more than $125 million following a staff restructure.
“Firstly, I want to thank Simon for his tireless service, especially over the past six months as he led our business through an incredibly challenging time and has dedicated much time and energy to our great game,” Clarke said.
“Rugby Australia is transforming as an organisation as we prioritise our key strategic objectives, and we’ve been incredibly agile in our response to the COVID-19 health and financial crisis.
“Adam’s appointment is a real coup for Rugby Australia and his experience will be crucial over the coming months.
“He is a very experienced senior executive and has led numerous transformational projects in prior roles so that nous has him well positioned to contribute to the future success of rugby in this country.
“He has already begun consulting with various stakeholders within the game and will be driving operational efficiencies at every level of rugby throughout Australia,” he said.
