Rugby Australia Andy Marinos quits as RA CEO with World Cup looming

Just months out from a Rugby World Cup, Rugby Australia (RA) CEO Andy Marinos has tendered his resignation, after two and a half years in the job.

According to multiple reports, Marinos resigned last week, with an official announcement to come on Monday afternoon.

The news comes just a week after the governing body reported an $8.2 million surplus, with Marinos earning praise for his work in putting the embattled organisation back in the black.

RA chairman Hamish McLennan said Marinos “delivered” on helping rugby regain its foothold after years of uncertainty.

“We asked Andy to draw upon his impressive career experience and extensive global relationships to re-establish Rugby as a leading code in Australia – he has delivered on this and been fundamental in the turnaround of the business,” McLennan said in a statement.

“Andy will leave RA having delivered several key projects, including the finalisation of the 2027 and 2029 Rugby World Cups, locking in the 2025 British and Irish Lions Tour, planning for a new contracting model for the professional game, implementation of strategy to professionalise Women’s XVs Rugby, and a new four-year Collective Bargaining Agreement for our professional men’s and women’s players.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Andy for his contribution to RA. We wish him well with his future endeavours.”

Marinos said he was proud of what he achieved in the post, saying the foundations have been set for the code to succeed going forward.

“I cannot overstate the commitment and incredible work ethic of the people around me at RA, and the roles they have played in helping drive some critical structural changes for Rugby in this country,” the outgoing CEO said.

“The foundations have been established and the business is now well-prepared to test the market for private equity investment, making it the right time for me to move on.

“Importantly, I will leave with the knowledge that RA is in a stronger position than when I joined, and proud of what has been achieved in my tenure as CEO.

“I want to thank the Board for the opportunity to lead this organisation, the Member Unions and the Super Rugby Clubs for their support.

“To all our teams in Gold, State, Territory and club colours, the players, the coaches and support staff, it has been a privilege to work alongside you. I will watch with interest, the next Golden Decade of Australian Rugby, and wish you all success, both on and off the pitch.”

Marinos will remain in the post until mid-June.