Scottish rugby Leadership Confirmed Through 2029, New Directors Appointed
Scottish Rugby has announced key leadership confirmations and new appointments following its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM). Professor Lorne Crerar will continue as chair of the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) for a second term,extending his tenure to May 2029. This decision was made after a proposal from the SRU’s Nomination Committee, receiving unanimous support from both the SRU and Scottish Rugby Limited (SRL) Boards.
Alongside Professor Crerar, Cheryl and David (last names not specified in the original text) have also committed to continuing their service with the SRU, having been recognized as vital contributors to the organization’s progress.
Continuity within the SRL was further solidified with the reappointment of John McGuigan as Chair, also until May 2029. The SRL Board recommended his extension, which was then approved by the SRU Board, aligning with Scottish Rugby’s governance structure. Self-reliant Non-Executive Directors Alex Whelan and Mike Soutar will also remain in their roles until June 2029, while Ruth Davidson’s term extends to July 2029.
These extensions provide stability as the organization recruits a replacement for Stephen White, who departed the SRL Board after relocating to Australia for a new career. The focus remains on building upon recent financial improvements and ensuring clear leadership during this transition.
“It is an immense privilege to serve as Chair of SRU,” stated Professor Crerar. “Much progress has been made since the new governance arrangements took effect,and our key task now is to maintain this momentum for the benefit of all involved in Scottish Rugby.” He also highlighted the importance of McGuigan’s continued leadership at SRL, emphasizing the consistency it will bring.
John McGuigan echoed this sentiment, stating, “I’m delighted to continue my work as Chair of Scottish Rugby Ltd. While we’ve made strides, there’s still much to do to establish Scotland as a leading Union globally.” He praised his team and the collaborative relationship between the SRL and SRU Boards.
The AGM, attended by 40 clubs in person and 100 online, also saw strong financial endorsement with a 99% approval vote for the 2024/25 Financial Statement.
Furthermore, member clubs elected Blair Stewart as the Custodian Director focused on Financial matters, securing 66.6% of the vote. alison Milne was re-appointed as the Custodian Director responsible for Strategic/Welfare, receiving 63.3% of the vote. Both will serve two-year terms on the SRU Custodian Board. The meeting also included presentations from Scottish Rugby President Keith Wallace, Chief Executive Alex Williamson, Chief Financial Officer David White, and Vice-President hazel Swankie (Chair of the Club Rugby Board).
