Rugby Union’s London Irish Get New Chief Executive

London Irish has announced the appointment of Richard
Sanderson as Chief Executive with immediate effect.

Mr Sanderson (47) is an experienced, international
businessman whose career includes senior general
management and marketing positions with the Black and
Decker Corporation both in the United Kingdom and the
United States of America. Most recently he was Vice
President and Managing Director – UK and Republic of
Ireland for Mattel, the world’s largest toy company.

Mr Sanderson is an enthusiastic sports fan. Along with
his wife, Alison and two children, the family has been
season ticket holders at London Irish for the past
three seasons.

Announcing Mr Sanderson’s appointment, John Conlan,
joint Chairman of London Irish, said: ‘The Directors
are very pleased that Richard is joining us as Chief
Executive at this very exciting stage of the company’s
development both on and off the field. Having
successfully strengthened the management of all aspects
of our rugby affairs with the appointments of Conor
O’Shea, Brendan Venter and Gary Gold, we are delighted
to complement that talent on the commercial side with
the appointment of an experienced businessman of the
calibre of Richard Sanderson.’

Commenting on his appointment Richard Sanderson said:
‘I am pleased to be joining London Irish at this
exciting time. I am impressed that at every level from
directors to the playing squad there is a determination
to establish London Irish as one of the leading
businesses in Europe. The potential for this famous
brand both in the United Kingdom and internationally is
huge and I look forward to playing a full part in
realising this club’s significant ambitions.’

Mr Sanderson and his family live in Princes Risborough,
Buckinghamshire.

For further information about London Irish RFC please
contact Patrick Lennon:
Patrick Lennon Associates
Gerrards Cross
Bucks SL9 7RH
tel 01753 893050
fax 01753 893051
email mail@patricklennon.com