Ospreys Rugby Limited today announced the appointment of Alun Wyn Jones to its Board of Directors, with immediate effect.
The appointment reflects a deliberate step by the Board to strengthen its capability at a critical time for the region, as the Ospreys continue to develop both on and off the field and navigate the wider challenges facing professional rugby in Wales.
Jones joins the Board as a director with defined responsibilities, bringing experience from across rugby, his post-playing career experience and the public sector, alongside a strong understanding of Swansea, the Ospreys and the region.
Born and raised in Swansea, he came through the Ospreys pathway and the national academy and played at St Helen's himself. He has remained closely linked to the city since, through his work with Swansea University and his own business interests.
That combination of experience is particularly relevant as the Ospreys continue to develop St Helen’s, strengthening their position within the city and region, and building on the growing anticipation within the supporter base.
Commenting on his appointment, Alun Wyn Jones said:
"For me, this is about bringing together my experience from rugby, business and life after playing, to help drive long-term growth and stability for the organisation. What I've built up on and off the field speaks directly to this role and to where the region wants to go. There's a real opportunity here, not just for the Ospreys, but for the wider development of Swansea.
“I know the game, I know the city and I know the region. I played for Swansea RFC and came through the Ospreys and national academy. I understand both the history here and the greater potential that exists.
“I have remained in contact with some staff and members of the Board. I have an understanding of the challenges facing rugby in Wales and the Ospreys. Equally, I can see the plans around the region, the development of St Helen’s and the energy within the supporter base.”
James Davies-Yandle, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Y11, owners of Ospreys, said:
“We were not looking for a figurehead. We were looking for a director who understands this club from the inside, and who can also stand up in a boardroom, hold his own and have a view on the detail. It was already a strong Board, this makes it stronger.
“Alun Wyn’s experience from a playing perspective will be an asset in helping us connect even more effectively with the playing group and the wider organisation. He understands the standards required at the highest level and the demands that come with representing this club and this region.
“He has earned this seat through preparation, and we are pleased to welcome him to the Board at such a critical and exciting time for the Ospreys.”
On his ongoing media work, Roger Blyth, Ospreys Board Director, said:
“Alun Wyn has agreed a straightforward protocol around his continuing media commitments, including that he will not provide punditry or analysis on Ospreys matches.
“The arrangement gives clarity around his responsibilities while allowing him to continue his wider media work. It is a sensible approach for someone who remains a prominent voice within the game.”
Alun Wyn Jones concluded:
"Ospreys and the supporters returning to St Helen's, the growth of the region and the positive impact on the wider community, these are all connected to our results on the field. I am looking forward to working with familiar faces and helping to navigate the current landscape of professional rugby.”
Jones’s appointment is effective immediately. Further details of his responsibilities on the Board will be confirmed in due course.
