Mark Dodson pens new deal to extend stay with SRU

SCOTTISH Rugby Union chief executive Mark Dodson has signed a new five-year contract, committing him to the governing body until after the Japan World Cup in 2019.
Mark Dodson. Picture: Jane BarlowMark Dodson. Picture: Jane Barlow
Mark Dodson. Picture: Jane Barlow

The SRU highlighted Dodson’s performance in forging links with corporate partners BT, RBS and Macron and strengthening Scotland’s two professional teams – Glasgow Warriors won the Guinness Pro12 this year after a runners-up spot in 2014, and Edinburgh reached the final of the European Rugby Challenge Cup, in which they lost to Gloucester.

However, the national side has not fared so well, losing all five matches in the 2015 RBS Six Nations to finish with the wooden spoon.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Dodson, who was appointed in September 2011, was also credited with building a pathway to develop young talent through the recent creation of the BT Scottish Rugby Academies.

Sir Moir Lockhead, the SRU chairman, said: “The board was very clear it wanted Mark to continue to build on the strong foundations he has established since his arrival. He has successfully steered Scottish Rugby into a positive commercial and operational position and led his team of senior managers with confidence and clarity of direction.”

Dodson said: “I would like to thank the board for this endorsement and I’m excited by the prospect of leading Scottish Rugby for the next five years, beyond the 2019 Rugby World Cup. We have a great team here working hard to improve Scottish Rugby at every level. I feel we have made significant strides in key areas of the business.

“We have stronger professional clubs, strong financial growth, a strong voice for Scotland on the European and world stage. I am committed to providing a winning environment for every club in Scotland and ensuring we continue to deliver our policy initiatives to the benefit of every level of the game.”