The IRFU has announced the appointment of Thelma O’Driscoll as its new Chief Financial Officer, with effect from September 1, 2023.
O’Driscoll joins from the British and Irish Lions where she has held a similar position since 2020.
A highly respected financial professional with vast knowledge of the Rugby financial and commercial landscape, she brings a wealth of experience to the IRFU, having worked in Celtic Rugby Limited (United Rugby Championship), the Six Nations and the British and Irish Lions.
A graduate of University College Cork, O’Friscoll is a chartered management accountant and will complete her MBA from the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School this Summer.
“I am delighted to welcome Thelma to the IRFU senior management team and wish her the very best in her role,” said IRFU CEO Kevin Potts.
“From a highly competitive field of applicants, Thelma emerged as an outstanding candidate and it was clear how knowledgeable she was about the sporting landscape in Ireland and internationally, especially given her broad experience in Rugby.”
“In welcoming Thelma, I would like to also pay tribute to Conor O’Brien who will remain on hand to ensure a smooth transition after 28 years of distinguished service. I look forward to working with Thelma later this summer and I believe that she brings a wealth of experience which will be of huge benefit to Irish rugby.”
“Taking on the role of Chief Financial Officer with the IRFU is a privilege and an opportunity that I am delighted and honoured to accept,” added O’Driscoll.
“I am excited to get underway and look forward to working with such a great team at the IRFU. To leave behind another great team at the British & Irish Lions fills me with pride at what we have achieved together, and I am very grateful for the support of my colleagues in all rugby organisations over the years which has enabled me to align my values with that of our great sport and many great rugby organisations.”
