Former New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson is to join World Rugby as its new chief of rugby.
Robinson, who stood down from his role with NZ Rugby (NZR) at the end of last year, will join the international federation in May.
He will lead a new rugby division,responsible for driving and overseeing excellence on the field, reinforcing World Rugby’s commitment to increasing rugby’s reach and value, and the global impact of the sport, maximising the effect of Rugby World Cups.
Robinson has previously served as a council and executive board member of World Rugby, and is currently leading “a review of game philosophy and match official alignment”. He is due to report back with that review at the 2026 Shape of the Game conference taking place in late February.
In his new role, the nine-test All Black will report directly to World Rugby’s chief executive Alan Gilpin.
In a statement, World Rugby said he would be part of “a division that will play a central role in shaping the future of the sport in collaboration with stakeholders”.
Mark Robinson: 'I look forward to contributing to a strategy that ensures rugby continues to grow.' Photo / Photosport
“Robinson’s responsibilities will include uniting the key areas of match officials, game technology, laws evolution, player welfare and fan experience, to ensure that rugby’s pinnacle events, including Rugby World Cups, continue to set the standard in global sport.”
The statement quoted Robinson as saying he was “excited to be joining the World Rugby team at a time of real opportunity”.
“The game is evolving rapidly, and the way players and fans engage with rugby is changing. I’m excited for the chance to help shape a future that enhances the spectacle for fans, supports unions and protects rugby’s core values on a global stage. I look forward to contributing to a strategy that ensures rugby continues to grow in relevance, reach and impact.”
Gilpin said Robinson brought “a unique blend of high-performance, commercial and global governance experience from leading one of the most recognisable brands in world sport”.
“Mark’s understanding of fan engagement, elite pathways and modern rugby operating models makes him exceptionally well placed to lead our new, strengthened rugby division, and help deliver a more accessible, competitive and compelling global game.”
World Rugby chair Brett Robinson said: “Mark’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for rugby. Over his rugby playing and administrative career, Mark has built trusted global relationships with key stakeholders, and as we embark on the delivery of a bold new five-year strategy, his leadership, rugby intelligence and knowledge will be instrumental in reimagining how our great game grows and thrives.”
