Rugby Australia Board of Directors - Independent Non-Executive Director Vacancies

Rugby Australia Ltd (Rugby AU) is seeking two exceptional individuals to join its Board of Directors as Independent Non-Executive Directors. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of rugby in Australia and contribute to the sport's growth and success as we head into an exciting period, with major events like the British & Irish Lions tour in 2025, the men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027, the women’s Rugby World Cup in 2029, all set to take place on Australian soil, culminating with the Brisbane Olympics in 2032. As the national governing body for Rugby Union in Australia, Rugby AU oversees all aspects of the sport, from grassroots development to elite competitions. A member of World Rugby and Oceania Rugby, Rugby AU plays a vital role in representing Australian rugby on the global stage. The Board of Directors sets the strategic direction of Rugby AU, ensuring its financial sustainability, and overseeing its management. The Board comprises nine directors, six of whom must be independent. Six directors are elected by Rugby AU Members, and three, including the Managing Director, are appointed by the Board.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Successful candidates will:

  • Contribute to the development and implementation of Rugby AU's strategic plan.
  • Provide independent oversight and challenge to executive management.
  • Ensure the financial health and sustainability of the organisation.
  • Uphold the highest standards of governance and ethical conduct.
  • Represent Rugby AU's interests at all levels of the game.
  • Foster a culture of inclusivity and diversity within the sport.

Priority Capabilities:
  • Strong governance experience, with deep audit and financial skills gained as a former audit partner or CFO with the ability to contribute to the Audit & Risk Committee.
  • Strong digital, data and technology experience.
  • Sports administration and/or major events experience.
  • Experience in community and/or women’s rugby in either candidate would be highly valued.

Foundation Capabilities

  • Board experience preferred with a demonstrated understanding of the role of the Board and Governance requirements.
  • Strategic thinking capability.
  • Business acumen / commercial skills.
  • Passion for Rugby, alignment with Rugby AU’s core values and a desire to see the game thrive at all levels.
Appointment and Term:

Following a recommendation by the Rugby AU Nominations Committee, successful candidates may be appointed to the Board under rule 5.1(b) of the Rugby AU Constitution, and then hold office until the next AGM (likely April 2025), when they will be eligible for election by Rugby AU Members. Directors serve three-year terms and can stand for re-election twice (maximum nine-year term).

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant skills and experience and why they are interested in joining the Rugby AU Board by emailing company.secretary@rugby.com.au. Applications will then be reviewed for consideration by the Rugby AU Nominations Committee supported by specialist Board recruitment firm, Hattonneale.

Closing Date:

Applications close on Monday 30 September at 5pm.

Rugby AU values diversity and inclusion, and we are actively working towards achieving the gender equity targets for sports governance recently announced by the Australian Sports Commission. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and join us in shaping the future of rugby in Australia.