Connacht appoint Willie Ruane as new CEO

The IRFU have nnounced Willie Ruane as the new CEO for Connacht Rugb. Ruane will take up the post this summer.

The Mayo native played rugby for Connacht in the late 1990s and also represented Ireland at Colleges and U21 level. Willie has been working in the Banking Sector for the past 15 years and takes the role in Connacht after being a Director within Ulster Bank's Business Restructuring Division.

It follows on from Head Coach Pat Lam having announced a number of high profile signings for the forthcoming season such as former All Black Mils Muliaina and the Waikato Chief's Bundee Aki.

"We are delighted to appoint a person of Willie's calibre and experience. It is both an exciting and challenging time for provincial rugby in Ireland with new European competitions and a revitalized PRO12," said IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne.

“Connacht face a number of commercial challenges but recent infrastructural investment and record crowds at the Sportsground shows the appetite and ambition of the province to grow the appeal of professional rugby in the region.”

Willie Ruane, commented: “I have a strong connection with Connacht Rugby and a good understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the province. Connacht has a top class coach, an exciting squad of players and some fantastic facilities. I am looking forward to helping to drive success on and off the pitch.”