Long-serving WP chief executive retires

Cape Town - After 25 years of unwavering service to Western Province Rugby and the Western Province Rugby Union (WPRFU), CEO Rob Wagner will take long leave effective immediately.

Wagner has been a faithful servant of the union and was at the forefront in the transition from the amateur to professional era, helping transform the brand into one of the strongest in world rugby.

Wagner was employed as senior sports administrator at the University of Cape Town in 1988 where he served for four years before being appointed as Marketing Manager by the WPRFU in 1991.

He would move on to the position of Director of Development and then Managing Director of WP Rugby in 1997 before being appointed Group CEO for both the WPRFU, Western Province Rugby (Pty) Ltd and the Stormers.

Wagner said that the position that he occupied was never taken for granted.

“It has been a very real privilege and an honour to serve Western Province Rugby. I have been blessed to be able to serve such a famous brand as an administrator. What a huge honour!

“Exciting things are in the pipeline under strong leadership at Western Province Rugby which will continue to be a leader in South African rugby,” he said.

WPRFU president Thelo Wakefield thanked Wagner for his immense contribution over a remarkable career with the union.

“Rob leaves a significant legacy behind him, and whoever takes his position has big boots to fill.

“He set a high standard in both the union and the company, and we will sorely miss the commitment and dedication of someone who can be described as a true Province man,” he said.

Wakefield confirmed that General Manager for Marketing Gavin Lewis will take over as interim CEO.