The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has revealed plans to cut up to 20 roles as part of a significant restructuring initiative aimed at achieving annual savings of £5 million. This transformative programme seeks to enhance the efficiency of the organization, allowing it to operate at a level befitting a £100 million-a-year business.
The WRU, which currently employs 344 people, has entered a formal consultation period with its staff regarding these changes. This announcement follows the recent acquisition of Cardiff Rugby, one of the four regional Welsh teams, which had fallen into administration earlier this week.
Abi Tierney, the WRU's chief executive, emphasized that all actions taken are aimed at improving rugby in Wales for everyone. She noted that last summer, the organization laid out its vision for 2029 and is now detailing the steps to reach that goal. According to Tierney, the year 2025 will be pivotal in marking the completion of Welsh rugby's transformation into a fully functional, professional organization.
The restructuring will also see the establishment of a chief growth officer role and the confirmation of an executive director of elite performance soon. Furthermore, the WRU anticipates approval of a new professional rugby agreement that will enhance funding and collaboration between the club boards and regional teams.
Tierney stated that the changes are integral to the One Wales strategy, which aims to ensure the professional game is financially stable. She remarked, "We need to stop living beyond our means and focus on investing in key elements that foster a thriving rugby nation. This has necessitated the reset at the WRU we are announcing today."
Despite investing in critical areas for growth, the WRU has regrettably acknowledged that there will be job losses. In its latest financial report, the WRU disclosed a £7.5 million loss for the year ending June 2024. While revenues increased, partly due to events at the Principality Stadium, they were insufficient to offset the losses.
During a tumultuous year, WRU leadership faced multiple crises while attempting to restructure. Tierney received praise for her collaborative approach, particularly in appointing Cardiff Rugby coach Matt Sherratt to temporarily lead the national team after Warren Gatland's departure. The WRU's collaboration with Cardiff has now evolved into complete control, as it intervened to prevent the club's permanent closure due to financial difficulties.
The WRU continues to navigate through these challenging times, working diligently to ensure a brighter future for rugby in Wales.
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