Scottish Rugby appoints Alex Williamson as new chief executive

Alex Williamson has been named as the new chief executive of Scottish Rugby.

Williamson, a former CEO of House of Fraser and Goodwood Estate, will begin his new role early in 2025.

The 50-year-old’s appointment concludes a search that began in January when Mark Dodson announced he was stepping down from his position at Murrayfield.

Scottish Rugby say Williamson, who is a Season Pass holder at the national stadium, has a proven track record of achieving commercial growth, improving performance and emphasising “authenticity, openness and community values”.

Williamson joins the organisation from private equity-owned education provider Inspiring Learning, where he has been CEO since 2019.

Scottish Rugby Limited Chair, John McGuigan, said: “I’m delighted Alex has agreed to join Scottish Rugby. He has significant experience in the areas we need to excel in over coming years, combined with fantastic energy and an open style of leadership.

“During the later stages in the recruitment process Alex had the opportunity to connect with our recently announced performance consultant David Nucifora . They will be a great partnership with complementary skills and a shared desire to grow the game in Scotland at all levels.

“On behalf of Scottish Rugby Ltd we very much look forward to Alex’s arrival.”

Scottish Rugby Union Chair, Professor Lorne Crerar, said: “Alex is an excellent appointment as Chief Executive and a very positive addition to the leadership team of Scottish Rugby.

“I have been very impressed with Alex’s understanding of the key issues and opportunities facing us.

“I am delighted he is joining Scottish Rugby and we all look forward to working with him.”

Williamson said he understands the impact the sport can have in making positive change and connecting people and aims to help Scottish Rugby fulfill it’s potential.

“I am very pleased to have the opportunity to lead a team charged with shaping the future of something that is about so much more than rugby,” he said. “A sport that brings families together, inspires fans and connects communities in the way Scottish rugby does makes it more important than ever.

“There are many opportunities ahead for the sport globally and locally and I see no reason why Scotland cannot continue to be a positive force in the world game and within the wider sporting community.”

“My interactions with John McGuigan and David (Nucifora), along with a number of board members have only amplified my confidence in what we have the potential to achieve. I cannot wait to get to Edinburgh and crack on.”