Sir James Wates CBE named Chair of the RFU Board
Sir James Wates CBE named Chair of the RFU Board
Sir James Wates CBE, former Chairman for Wates Group, has been appointed as Chair of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) Board, replacing interim Chair, Sir Bill Beaumont.
This prestigious appointment recognises Sir James’ distinguished career in the construction and business sectors, marked by significant leadership roles and contributions to industry standards and charitable causes.
He brings extensive leadership experience to the RFU alongside a deep love of the game of rugby, stretching back to his early playing days.
Sir James continues to serve as a board director of Wates Group, having led the company as Chairman from 2013 to 2023. His influence extends well beyond our organisation, with current roles as Chairman of Vestey Holdings, Chairman of Tewke and a board member for The King’s Trust 50th Anniversary Campaign.
In the past he has served as Chairman of Family Business UK, Chairman of the BRE (Building Research Establishment) Trust, the CBI Construction Council and the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board), and Co-Chair of the Government sponsored Infrastructure Exports: UK and Build UK.
In 2018, he was appointed by the Government to chair the coalition group developing corporate governance principles for large private companies – the ‘Wates Principles’. In 2012 he was awarded the CBE and in 2019 was knighted for services to business and to charity.
Sir James has a long involvement in community rugby at Dorking RFC, having played age-grade and adult rugby, and where he continues to hold the role of honorary VP.
He is a lifelong England rugby fan, has been a debenture holder at Allianz Stadium for many years and he believes passionately in the power of sport to change people’s lives.
The selection process was led by Polly Williams, Senior Independent Director on the RFU Board.
There was a robust longlist and shortlist process, and the panel included RFU Council members with strong connections with the community game at all levels, and also those with a background in areas such as business, finance and governance.
We are thrilled to announce that Sir James Wates will be joining the RFU Board as the new Chair. It was a diligent process that took time to ensure that the right appointment was made.
“He was an outstanding candidate, unanimously chosen, and he will bring excellent leadership experience, a commitment to improve and grow the sport he loves and wide-ranging insight and knowledge in important areas including innovation, sustainability and technology.
“His industry experience will also be a significant asset as we seek to modernise and redevelop Allianz Stadium in the coming years.”
Polly Williams
Senior Independent Director on the RFU Board
It is a true honour to be named Chair of the Board of the RFU, and I can’t wait to get started.
“English Rugby is steeped in legacy and history, and it is a history that the country should be proud of, while also being excited about what is to come.
“Later this year, we have the Women’s Rugby World Cup hosted across England and I am looking forward to this happening so soon into my tenure.
“I will do my upmost to maximise the growth of the game, with the support of the RFU Board and wider team in the years ahead and engaging as much as possible in the rugby community at all levels across England.”
Sir James Wates CBE
Board Director, Wates Group
On behalf of everyone at Wates, I’d like to congratulate Sir James on his appointment as Chair of the RFU Board. His unwavering commitment to leadership, governance and community make him a perfect choice for this role. We are proud to see his passion for rugby and his dedication to public service recognised in this way. The sport is set to thrive under Sir James’s stewardship.”
Tim Wates
Chairman, Wates Group
When we reimagine, there are no limits.
