Sport Industry Group

New England Rugby 2015 chair appointed- 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has announced the appointment of Andrew Cosslett as chairman England Rugby 2015 - the former chief executive officer of InterContinental Hotels Group plc, who has held the post of interim chairman, will take up the role next month.

According to the RFU, Cosslett was chosen for his international business experience and leadership skills built over 30 years in consumer facing industries. 

In addition to his role as chief executive officer of InterContinental Hotels Group, between 2005-2011, Cosslett was a Board member of the Executive Committee of the World Travel and Tourism Council, a member of the President’s Committee of the Confederation of British Industry and a Board member of the International Tourism Partnership.

Before this Cosslett spent 14 years with Cadbury Schweppes in roles including: Chairman, Australia; Chief Executive, Asia Pacific; Managing Director, Great Britain and Ireland and President, Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Cosslett, together with Paul Vaughan, Chief Executive Officer of England Rugby 2015, will lead the Board which includes: RFU Chief Executive Officer, Ian Ritchie; RFU Chief Financial Officer, Stephen Brown; Professional Game Board Chairman, Ian Metcalfe; Injured Players Foundation Chairman and former RFU President, John Owen; RFU Council member and Chairman of the Championship Clubs Geoff Irvine and Permanent Secretary in the Cabinet Office and the Government’s Chief Operating Officer, Ian Watmore.

Ian Ritchie, who was announced as the new CEO of the RFU in December, said: ‘Andy Cosslett’s attributes and experience will no doubt bring huge benefits to the role of England Rugby 2015 Chairman. The Rugby World Cup in England provides a unique and very exciting opportunity and we look forward to working closely with Andy, England Rugby 2015 and Rugby World Cup Limited to help create a legacy that will benefit the sport for generations to come.’

Cosslett added: ‘I am passionate about the game and delighted to be able to play my part in delivering Rugby World Cup 2015.  England 2015 is a great challenge but a tremendous opportunity and I look forward to working with Paul Vaughan, England Rugby 2015, the Rugby Football Union and Rugby World Cup Limited to deliver what we intend to be the best Rugby World Cup yet.’

Paul Vaughan commented: ‘I am sure Andy Cosslett will make a great Chairman for England Rugby 2015. The international business and marketing skills that he brings to the Board will continue to be invaluable in his new role as Chairman. He has great empathy with the game and I think we will make a great team.’