New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson will step down at the end of 2025, ending a six-year tenure marked by financial turbulence, pandemic-era challenges, and major structural reforms.
Robinson, who took over in 2020 just before COVID-19 disrupted global sport, helped navigate NZR through crises including multimillion-dollar losses, the contentious Silver Lake investment deal, and the early departure of key sponsor Ineos.
On the field, his leadership saw the Black Ferns’ home World Cup triumph and a narrow All Blacks World Cup final loss, alongside controversy over coaching appointments.
Robinson cited family reasons for relocating to Australia, with board chair David Kirk praising his contributions and announcing a global search for his replacement.
“My family have been based in Australia for the last few months with all three of my children studying there. My wife is already there supporting them and, ultimately, I will be joining them early next year”, said Robinson.
“The past six years have been a period of rapid change, or unprecedented challenges through the pandemic, and significant evolution across commercial, competitions and structures. I will reflect on that as I get closer to stepping away, but I firmly believe the foundations of our organisation are extremely strong and the game is well-placed for the future.”
