Australian Rugby Union COO Rob Clarke Resigns

The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has confirmed the resignation of its Chief Operating Officer, Rob Clarke.

Clarke, who returned to the ARU in 2014 as General Manager Professional Rugby, Marketing and Operations before being promoted to COO in 2015, has called time on a decade-long career in Rugby administration.

Clarke had previously held the COO role at the ARU from 2006-2007 and has also served at the helm of the Brumbies and Melbourne Rebels as Chief Executive Officer.

ARU CEO, Bill Pulver said:  “His resignation was difficult to accept but Rob has decided the time is right to pursue a different course along with his family and he deserves to be incredibly proud of his career in the game.

Clarke will conclude his role with the ARU in June 2017. He has chosen not to comment on his personal decision until the ongoing process in Super Rugby has concluded.