LOCOG Director Debbie Jevans Becomes England Rugby 2015 CEO

Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) has welcomed the appointment of Debbie Jevans by the England Rugby 2015 (ER 2015) Board as Chief Executive of the organising body responsible for the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2015.

Jevans succeeds Paul Vaughan, who has stepped down having guided the early stages of hosting preparation for Rugby’s showcase event since ER 2015’s establishment in December 2010.

As Director of Sport for the London 2012 Organising Committee, Jevans has been an instrumental figure in the delivery of the hugely successful Olympic and Paralympic Games that have captivated a nation and captured hearts and minds around the world.

RWCL Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “Rugby World Cup Limited welcomes Debbie Jevans’ appointment as Chief Executive of ER 2015.”

“The successful delivery of one of the world’s largest sporting events is founded on a clear vision, partnership, teamwork and strong leadership. As a driving force behind the exceptional London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Debbie certainly possesses all the necessary attributes to drive the delivery of what promises to be a special tournament.”

“We are looking forward to continuing to work in partnership with ER 2015 Chairman Andy Cosslett, Debbie and the ER 2015 and RFU teams to drive forward key operational objectives. These include venue selection, the match schedule and ticketing programme development which will all set a strong base for an outstanding Rugby World Cup in 2015 of which England and the global Rugby family will be proud.”

“On behalf of RWCL and the IRB I would like to thank Paul Vaughan for his strong contribution to developing the early foundations for the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2015 in England and I wish him all the very best,” added Lapasset.

ER 2015 chairman Andy Cosslett said: “Debbie is hugely respected across sport.

“Rugby will benefit from her experience in leading large teams to deliver major sporting events to a global audience.”

“As a passionate sports fan the next decade is a great one for the UK and we have an amazing opportunity to bring rugby and the values of sport to more fans across the country than ever before,” she said.

Vaughan, who left his post by mutual consent, was business operations director at the Rugby Football Union for 10 years before he was appointed to ER 2015 in December 2010.

“We are grateful for all the hard work he and his team have put in to enable us to be ready for the next phase,” said Cosslett.

With a little over three years to go until England hosts a Rugby World Cup for the second time, a number of key milestones have been achieved in 2012, including setting the tournament dates and detailed venue assessments undertaken. The year will culminate in the Rugby World Cup 2015 Pool Allocation Draw in London on December 3.