WRU CEO Abi Tierney to return to Welsh rugby leadership role in the New Year
WRU CEO Abi Tierney to return to Welsh rugby leadership role in the New Year
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The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) have confirmed that Chief Executive Abi Tierney will be returning to her role with the Union in the New Year.
Tierney had been undergoing treatment after a cancer diagnosis in August and began a phased return in November, with the Chair of the WRU’s Board, Richard Collier-Keywood, and the rest of the Union’s leadership team taking on her responsibilities.
However, having received “a positive prognosis”, Tierney will now make a full return to take up her leadership position, with Collier-Keywood reverting back to his responsibilities as chair.
“This is a pivotal time for the game in Wales and, whilst I’ve been constantly kept informed and am across all developments, I’m looking forward to being able to contribute directly again,” Tierney said in a statement.
“My treatment is going well and I’ve received a positive prognosis which allows me to return in the new year.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has wished me well over my time away and sent positive messages of support. The Welsh rugby family has been incredibly supportive and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
“Of course, there are significant and major challenges presented to Welsh rugby at this time but there is also a huge opportunity for us to forge a way ahead in our professional game which will safeguard its future,” Tierney added.
“There is a lot more hard work ahead, but our strength in Welsh rugby is in our ability to unite and work together towards one collective aim and I am looking forward to contributing to this again.”
Collier-Keywood said Tierney’s return will add “new and positive impetus” as the Union moves forward with plans to reduce the number of professional sides in Wales from four to three.
“I know I speak on behalf of the whole game in Wales when I welcome Abi back into her role,” he said.
“We are making progress in our transformation programme for the professional game in Wales, but I know Abi’s return will add new and positive impetus at this pivotal time.”
Tierney was appointed as WRU CEO in August 2023.
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