The IRFU has announced the appointment of Padraig Power as Deputy Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect, marking a further expansion of his long-standing leadership role within the organisation.
Power will continue in his position as Chief Commercial Officer alongside his new responsibilities, retaining oversight of the Union’s commercial portfolio and overall commercial strategy.
A central figure within the IRFU for more than two decades, Power first joined the organisation in 2000 as Promotions and Marketing Manager before being promoted to Commercial and Marketing Director in 2005. During that time, he has overseen sustained growth across key revenue streams including ticketing, hospitality, matchday income and sponsorship.
His tenure has also been defined by the development of what the IRFU describes as the largest sports sponsorship portfolio in Ireland. Partnerships with major global brands such as Vodafone, Diageo, Canterbury, Aviva and PwC have been secured and expanded during his time in charge of commercial operations.
In 2022, Power’s remit broadened further when he assumed responsibility for the Union’s operations function in addition to his commercial duties, formally taking on the role of Chief Commercial Officer.
The creation of the Deputy CEO position reflects the increasing demands on the IRFU’s executive leadership, particularly as the Chief Executive’s role continues to expand internationally through involvement with global tournaments and governance structures. The new role is intended to support effective delegation of operational responsibilities within the organisation.
Power also holds a number of positions across the wider rugby landscape. He is a board member of the United Rugby Championship and sits on the board of Aviva Stadium. In addition, he is part of the London Finals Organising Committee for the forthcoming Nations Championship tournament.
IRFU Chair Declan Madden said Power’s appointment reflects both his contribution to the organisation and the evolving nature of its operations.
“Padraig has been an integral part of the IRFU’s success for over two decades, and his leadership has contributed significantly to the financial strength and commercial reputation of Irish Rugby,” he said.
“The enhancement of his role to include Deputy CEO reflects both the increasing complexity of the organisation and our confidence in his ability to help assist the Union through its next phase of growth. Padraig brings experience, stability and a deep understanding of the game, and we are fortunate to have him step into an expanded role.”
If you, like the IRFU, Vodafone, PwC, Bank of Ireland, Energia, Aer Lingus, Laya Healthcare, Aviva and other Irish Rugby sponsors, would like to be part of the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the conversation happening every day around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
Image Credit: Irish Rugby and Brendan Moran, Sportsfile
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