The Rugby Football League (RFL) is the governing body for the Sport of Rugby League in the United Kingdom.
We believe that Rugby League is more than a sport. It is a cultural identity, a passion, a way of life, and a practical force for good in communities. Its history is one of determination to succeed against the odds, to fight discrimination and intolerance, and to be an honest and authentic sport, which cares enough to make a difference to its fans, their families, and communities. Since 1895, we have delivered a sport that delights fans across the country. We are proud of who we are, the value we add to sport and society, and the difference we make, together.
Rugby League has recently agreed a new corporate strategy and undergone a significant governance restructure, which includes the creation of a new entity, RL Commercial. The realignment enables the focus of the newly structured RFL to be on developing and growing the grassroots game, driving participation, performance of the England teams, and independently regulating the sport. Whilst working closely alongside RL Commercial, the RFL will be dedicated to continuing to be a high performing national governing body. This realignment is unique amongst its peers and presents an extremely exciting time to join. Having also announced a long-term strategic partnership with a global leader in the sports and entertainment industry, the sport is now poised to take advantage of an array of exciting opportunities. These of course also include the World Cup Tournament in the UK in October and November 2022.
As part of the realignment of the governance, the composition of the RFL Board has been reviewed and the opportunity for an individual to join the Board has arisen. The successful candidate will be one of four Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) (including the Chair) who sit on the RFL Board (alongside two Executive Directors) to provide independent judgement and objective challenge on issues of strategy, governance, performance, and resources. The overriding purpose for the appointee will be to work with the other Board members to ensure that the RFL develops as a successful organisation, promoting exemplary corporate governance and transparency. The postholder will share our commitment to continuing to develop as an effective and representative governing body fully equipped to lead, develop, grow, regulate, and govern the sport. The RFL is formally recognised amongst its peers for the quality of governance and organisational operation and the successful candidates must ensure that this reputation be maintained.
Whilst the Board has collective responsibility on all matters, to ensure complementarity of skills across members, the RFL are ideally seeking an individual with significant expertise and knowledge in relation to elite sporting performance, coaching, refereeing, or grassroots participation. This may be developed from within Rugby League or another sport or sports, and be accompanied by a passion to learn and commitment to our vision.
We seek an exceptional, inclusive leader to fill this vacancy, who will bring the skills and credibility to provide independent support and challenge to the Board and other relevant stakeholders. You will be able to evidence competency in sport decision making, enabling you to contribute to the Board and assist in determining the strategic direction of the organisation. You will be a natural collaborator, able to build effective relationships with all stakeholders both within and external to Rugby League. With high levels of political sensitivity, diplomacy, and judgement, you will offer excellent ambassadorial and networking skills.
Time Commitment
Circa 25 days per year plus attendance at some matches and key events.
Location
All Rugby League companies will be based at the Etihad Campus, Manchester in June 2022 (the new home of the Sport). The Etihad will be an accessible venue, but we would be pleased to discuss any specific accessibility needs on a one-to-one basis.
Term
Initial term of three years. Non-executive Directors may serve a maximum of nine years (made up of 2, 3 or 4-year terms).
Remuneration
£19,000 per annum plus expenses. An additional fee will accrue in the event that the Candidate is also appointed as Chair of a Board Sub Committee.
The RFL recognises the enhanced creativity, performance, and legitimacy of an organisation that embraces and celebrates diversity, and are actively striving to realise these benefits at Board and beyond. We recognise that to fully deliver on our mission and be true to our guiding principles, we must be representative of the communities which we serve. We have committed to achieving gender parity and greater diversity on our Board, and strongly encourage applications from suitably qualified candidates from under-represented sections of the community, whether based on sex, gender, race, disability, sexuality, lower socio-economic groups, or other characteristics. We would be pleased to discuss our culture and commitments with any interested individuals.
How to apply
For further details, including the job description, person specification, and information on how to apply, please click on the button at the bottom of the page, and quote reference number 5820 when taken through to the new page. Candidates wishing to apply should submit a CV (including comprehensive details of key achievements and responsibilities) along with a covering letter which fully addresses the competencies outlined in the role description and person specification.
The closing date for applications is 9am (BST) on Monday 20th June 2022.
The RFL will be supported in these appointments by executive search firm Perrett Laver. Any initial enquiries should be directed to Ikem Nwankwo on +44 (0)20 7340 6208 or ikem.nwankwo@perrettlaver.com
Please note applicants must not have a “Relevant Association” with a Rugby League club or the RFL and must not be a relative of any person who has a “Relevant Association” with a club or the RFL. A “Relevant Association” means that at any time within the last 12 months, the applicant is or was:
- An official of or a partner in or the sole proprietor of a rugby league club;
- A creditor of a rugby league club or the RFL (excluding normal trade credit); or
- A professional advisor to a rugby league club or the RFL.
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