USA Rugby Release – Calder Cahill
- Young joined USA Rugby as Interim CEO in April 2018 after the departure of his predecessor, Dan Payne.
- A unanimous vote from Board of Directors and support of USA Rugby Congress in the appointment.
- The decision comes after performance evaluation from a fully seated board and review of candidates assembled by the executive search process.
LAFAYETTE, CO – After careful consideration, The USA Rugby Board of Directors voted to officially appoint Ross Young as permanent CEO of USA Rugby. Young has been operating in the role on an interim basis since the departure of his predecessor, Dan Payne. Since joining the organization in April of 2018, Young’s time has remained focused on the stabilization of the union and structure of the National Governing Body.
Shortly after Payne’s departure to head up operations with Rugby Americas, Young was brought in to fill the void on an interim basis. The plan was to first populate a fully seated Board of Directors while putting on hold the executive search for a full-time CEO – of which Young was being considered along with other candidates.
With the USA Rugby board fully seated earlier this year, the entirety of the leadership group was able to evaluate potential options and move forward with a permanent appointment. With the confidence and progress Young had displayed during his 10-month interim stage and with the support of USA Rugby Congress, the Board unanimously voted to remove the interim tag.
“While it was important that we took the necessary steps of due diligence in this process,” noted USA Rugby Chair, Barbara O’Brien, “Ross’ demonstration of balance and leadership during this demanding period displayed the qualities and value to the union that was necessary and essential moving forward.”
Under the direction of Young, American rugby experienced a benchmark year. Notable achievements include an executed governance review and restructure of the organization, balance of the national office and fulfillment of Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018. Notwithstanding financial liabilities resulting from the July tournament, the promotional impact of the sport and commercial leads created have proved valuable post-event. Young and newly appointed CFO Eric Gleason now move forward with the goal of the organization and strategic planning, hyper-focused on financial and structural consistency.
Young added, “It has been an incredibly tough period for the Union, but I have a huge amount of faith in my colleagues within the organization and the whole USA Rugby community as we look to maintain a stable foundation. Our goal is to unite all stakeholders and help grow the game of rugby while ensuring the National Teams perform to the best of their ability.
Reform is a procedure that requires care, inclusivity and above all, patience. I very much look forward to leading this group of dedicated individuals at the National Office and working with the Board, Congress and all members of the Rugby Family to provide the support and guidance our members can be proud of.”
