Carl Moon has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Waikato Rugby Union. 

The 46-year-old has been operating in an acting capacity for the past nine months while the incumbent CEO – Blair Foote – was seconded by New Zealand Rugby to lead the Nga Miro Provincial Union Review. 

Moon brings significant experience across a variety of leadership roles.  Initially a commercial pilot, he moved to the NZ Police where he enjoyed a 16-year career, before commencing with the WRU in 2018 in a commercial role. 

A rapid rise saw him move into rugby participation and development and eventually into the acting CEO role since August last year.  

“It has been a real honour and a privilege to lead the Waikato Rugby Union over the past nine months. To have the opportunity to lead the Union in our centenary year, at a critical period for our sport is hugely exciting and I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Moon. 

“I have enjoyed a professional life of service, and now my attention turns to serving our rugby community, our people, and ensuring our legacy only gets stronger. We have worked incredibly hard to get the Union back to where we should be, with our people sacrificing a lot as we navigated the recent global pandemic.  

“I would like to acknowledge our Board for the faith and support they continue to provide, also Footy (Blair Foote) for the massive contribution he made to getting us to a strong position and ready to launch into what is a very exciting time for rugby with massive potential to reimagine the game and deliver experiences that today’s community wants.” 

WRU chairperson, Colin Groves, was happy with the thorough selection process which resulted in securing a candidate of Moon’s calibre. 

“Carl has been an absolute pleasure to work with over the past nine months as our Acting CEO, and the Board is thrilled by Carl’s permanent promotion. Everest People, from our family of sponsors, carried out a complete and vigorous appointment process. 

“It’s exciting to have a new CEO in the Centenary Year of our mighty and proud Rugby Union.” 

Moon officially starts his new role effective immediately. 

Article added: Thursday 13 May 2021