International Rugby League appoint independant chairman
International Rugby League has appointed Greg Barclay to be the organisation’s first independent chairman.
Barclay’s appointment follows a wide-ranging review of governance carried out in 2018 and 2019. He has just started his last term as the chair of New Zealand Cricket and is also a board member of the International Cricket Council.
Barclay commented: “I am humbled and proud to be the first independent chair of the IRL.
“I am thoroughly looking forward to working with the board, staff, members and other stakeholders to continue the global growth of rugby league.
“I believe there are many opportunities across the globe that we can develop, which will build on the work of the last few years.”
The chair will be joined by two other independent directors – Emma Young and Troy Grant. Young has a strong background in digital strategy and enabling business transformation.
She said: “I am delighted to be appointed to the board of IRL as one of its first independent non-executive directors and am excited about helping build on the success of rugby league globally and support its inclusive and diverse approach to growing the sport.”
Grant had a significant 22-year career in policing and emergency management before being elected to the New South Wales parliament.
He said: “It is a privilege to be a part of rugby league’s world governing body. I am very keen to be part of the sport’s growth.
“I will be a passionate advocate for the sport utilising my political experience and networks to enhance our present stakeholder relationships and help to take our sport into new geographies and cultures.”
Grant will also serve as a deputy chair alongside current IRL chair, Graeme Thompson, who will move to a deputy chair role as well.
The new directors will take up their appointments on January 10, with Barclay assuming the chair on February 1.
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