Executive Director, USA Growth Plan

World Rugby is the global governing and law-making body for Rugby Union, delivering world-class tournaments and events including the pinnacle men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups and the HSBC SVNS Series.

World Rugby is now on a mission to innovate to excite, inspire and engage new audiences in existing and new rugby markets, to grow the sport for all. Through World Rugby Events & Media (WREM), the delivery of major tournaments under a new model will be key to the success of a ten year strategic plan which will see global Rugby World Cups, and culminating in ground breaking tournaments in the USA in 2031 and 2033. Under the new model, World Rugby will have a more direct role in the setting up, running and delivery of the Rugby World Cups and aims to be the leader in the delivery of major international events. 

Closing Date: Friday 28th August 2026

Help Shape the Future of Rugby in the United States 

World Rugby is embarking on one of the most ambitious growth initiatives in global sport. With the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031 and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2033 coming to the United States, we are investing in a long-term strategy to transform rugby’s profile, participation and commercial success across the country.

We are now seeking an exceptional leader to join us as Executive Director, USA Growth Plan.

This is a pivotal executive role responsible for leading and delivering World Rugby’s USA Growth Plan, driving audience growth, fan engagement, stakeholder partnerships and market development in one of the world’s most dynamic sporting landscapes.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Executive Director will sit at the centre of World Rugby’s US ambitions, working closely with USA Rugby, international unions, commercial partners and World Rugby leadership.

You will:

• Lead the execution of World Rugby’s long-term USA Growth Plan.


• Drive audience growth, fan acquisition and engagement across the US market.


• Oversee integrated marketing, content and digital initiatives.


• Coordinate an annual programme of international rugby events across the United States.


• Build and maintain strategic relationships with USA Rugby and key stakeholders.

Monitor performance against key growth objectives and ensure strong governance and reporting.

 
Who We're Looking For 

We are keen to hear from exceptional senior executives with a proven track record of building audiences, expanding market reach and accelerating growth at scale. You will have led ambitious, multi-year growth programmes, business transformation initiative and/or market-expansion strategies, unlocking new revenue streams and delivering measurable results across sport, media, entertainment or other consumer-facing businesses.

 
Location: USA based – initially in a hybrid home and office working arrangement. This is likely to change following selection of Host Cities and Venues at the end of 2027.

How To Apply - This is a rare opportunity to play a defining role in the growth of rugby in the United States and help shape the success and legacy of two Rugby World Cups. 

Please follow the link below to review the full job description & apply www.odgers.com/96345

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:

World Rugby is committed to building a diverse workforce and therefore strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups. We are committed to equality and inclusion and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of their background. We strive to be a diverse and inclusive workplace, which reflects the global sport we want to be and where everyone can be themselves and feel they belong.