Managing Director, RWC 2031

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, the global governing body for Rugby Union, is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as Managing Director of its newly established USA subsidiary responsible for planning and delivering the Rugby World Cup USA 2031.

Reporting to the Chief of Events, the Managing Director will lead the day-to-day planning, organisation, and delivery of one of the world’s premier sporting events. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in growing rugby’s reach and impact in the United States while delivering a world-class tournament.

The successful candidate will bring strong leadership, major event delivery experience, and a passion for creating outstanding sporting experiences that engage fans, partners, and stakeholders on a global stage.

The Opportunity

The Managing Director Rugby World Cup USA 2031 will lead World Rugby’s tournament delivery subsidiary in the USA and will be responsible for the planning, organisation, and delivery of the Rugby World Cup 2031.

You will:

• Lead the planning, organisation and delivery of Rugby World Cup USA 2031, ensuring a world-class tournament experience on and off the field.


• Build and lead a high-performing organisation, creating a collaborative, one-team culture aligned with World Rugby values.


• Drive commercial success by partnering across ticketing, hospitality, sponsorship, media rights, retail and licensing to deliver record revenues.


• Develop and manage the tournament’s overall strategy, programme plan, budget and governance, ensuring strong financial performance and risk management.


• Serve as the principal ambassador for Rugby World Cup USA 2031, engaging key stakeholders including USA Rugby, host cities, venues, leagues and strategic partners.


• Deliver a lasting legacy for rugby in the USA by driving fan growth, innovation, sustainability and alignment with World Rugby’s long-term development ambitions.

Who We're Looking For 

• Proven executive leadership experience delivering major international sporting events or multi-sport competitions.


• Track record of building, leading and inspiring high-performing teams within complex, multi-stakeholder environments.


• Expertise in overseeing large-scale programmes from strategy and planning through to flawless execution and legacy delivery.


• Strong commercial, financial and operational acumen, with experience managing significant budgets, contracts and risk.


• Exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the credibility to engage boards, governing bodies, partners, venues and host cities.


• International outlook with experience working across cultures and diverse stakeholder groups.

 
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 and apply:  www.odgers.com/96347

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.