_{29th October, 2026}

• Lead one of New Zealand's most historic provincial rugby unions
• Drive commercial growth, organisational performance and financial sustainability
• Strengthen community rugby, performance pathways and stakeholder relationships

 
The Opportunity
Wellington Rugby Football Union (WRFU) is seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next phase of development. Established in 1879, Wellington Rugby has a proud history and strong community connections, supporting 18 clubs, approximately 8,500 members and high-performance programmes including the Wellington Lions, Wellington Pride and Academy.
 
Reporting to the Board, the CEO will provide strategic and operational leadership, strengthen commercial performance and financial sustainability, and build meaningful relationships across the rugby community.
 
Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of WRFU's strategic priorities and organisational performance.
• Drive financial sustainability, commercial partnerships and revenue growth.
• Strengthen club and community engagement, participation and player pathways.
• Oversee representative and high-performance rugby programmes.
• Build strong relationships with NZ Rugby, the Hurricanes, sponsors and key stakeholders.
• Lead and inspire a high-performing team, fostering a positive and accountable culture.

 
About You
We are seeking a senior executive with proven leadership experience, strong commercial and financial acumen, and the ability to engage and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
 
The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Proven senior executive leadership and strategic management experience.
• Strong business acumen, with a proven track record of delivering sustainable results.
• Outstanding stakeholder relationship management and communication skills.
• Experience leading organisational change and developing high-performing teams.
• Sound governance understanding and experience working effectively with Boards.
• An authentic, collaborative leadership style and the ability to connect with diverse communities.
• Experience in rugby, sport administration or membership-based organisations would be advantageous but is not essential.

 
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a proud rugby organisation and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the game across the Wellington region.
 
Applications close: Wednesday 18 November 2026.

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