ROGER LEWIS, THE Welsh Rugby Union’s group chief executive, has announced that he will be leaving his current position following the 2015 World Cup.
The 60-year-old has been the top man in Welsh rugby since 2006, and has caused a number of controversies during his time in charge.
Many Welsh rugby supporters have already professed their relief that Lewis will move on, but the former managing director of ITV Wales has had a number of successes during his reign too.
The appointment of Warren Gatland in 2007 has seen Wales enjoy a period of on-field success that includes three Six Nations championships, two of which were Grand Slams.
However, Lewis’ poor relationship with the Welsh regional sides and the exodus of a number of the nation’s top players to France and England are held up against the chief executive by a large portion of rugby fans in Wales.
The WRU says it will begin looking for a replacement group chief executive immediately.
“The time is now right for me to step down after a remarkable period at the helm of the Welsh Rugby Union,” said Lewis on announcing his decision.
“It has been a fantastic and memorable journey both on and off the pitch and I would like to thank the board of the WRU for their backing during some challenging times and for my colleagues who have been unstinting in their support for me both personally and professionally.
“After nine years as group chief executive the time is right for me to move forward and by announcing this in advance now, we are ensuring that the transition can be well managed in the best interests of Welsh rugby.
“I am extremely proud of all that we have achieved together over the past nine years. The WRU is now in a strong position to seize the opportunities and face the inevitable challenges of the future and I wish my successor well for the adventure ahead.”
