RFU Appoint Chignell as New Head of Media

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has announced its second appointment in as many days after confirming that Will Chignell will become its new head of media, drug following the recent announcements of a new chief operating officer and two other significant rugby leadership roles. 

The new appointments are part of a new leadership team at the RFU, which will take the organisation through to the Rugby World Cup (RWC) in 2015 and beyond with Chignell set to join from July 4 from Sky Sports where he has spent 16 years as a rugby reporter and commentator. 

Chignell is a regular live commentator on Heineken Cup, Aviva Premiership, LV= Cup and international matches and he will now lead the RFU’s media operations across the board to ensure the organisation has a clear media strategy that is closely aligned with its business strategy.

This will include media responsibility for all parts of the RFU including the senior England team and age grade sides, but extending beyond that to cover all commercial activities and the grassroots game to further enhance the organisation’s media profile across all broadcast and print channels.

John Steele, CEO of the RFU, stated: “When you are looking at your media operations you need to know you have someone who deeply understands the way the media operates but also has the ability to connect that to the way our organisation works. 

“With over 15 years as a broadcaster Will more than fulfils that first criteria and through the selection process he clearly demonstrated to us that he had a deep understanding of the RFU and its challenges also.” 

Will Chignell added: “As rugby continues to grow, with the 2015 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, the media are crucial stakeholders in helping the sport develop further. I am looking forward to working with all parties to achieve this.”