Rugby Union Football: New Welsh Rugby Union CEO
By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
Following a damning independent report into the governance of the governing body of Welsh Rugby Union Football (WRU), which found that the WRU was sexist, misogynistic, homophobic and not properly challenged, the WRU has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
The new CEO is Abi Tierney, the former Director General of HM Passport Office and UK Visas and Immigration.
She is Welsh, a Rugby Union fan and the first woman to hold this position.
Tierney remarked on her appointment:
“The report says we have lost the trust and one of my main focuses is to rebuild that.”
And added:
“The behaviours that people experienced - the homophobia, the racism, the misogyny – I just thought it was horrific and none of that behaviour is acceptable.”
Her appointment to such a senior role is yet another example of women making a difference in sport, especially in male dominated ones.
She states that she is committed to changing the culture in Welsh Rugby Union Football and we wish her well!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘
