Michael Collins Appointed as Chief Rugby Officer Amid New Zealand Rugby Executive Reform

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has announced the appointment of Michael Collins as its new chief rugby officer, a move that signals the ongoing transformation of the sport's leadership in Aotearoa. According to a report by RNZ on 25 June 2026, the former Chiefs prop will take up the high-level role in September, bringing a wealth of experience from across the rugby landscape. Collins, who played 82 games for the Chiefs and represented Waikato in the NPC, transitions to the Auckland-based executive team from his current position as the director of sport at Bond University on Australia’s Gold Coast. His professional background includes chief executive roles at both the Taranaki Rugby Union and the Chiefs Super Rugby franchise. In his new capacity, NZR confirms that Collins will lead professional rugby operations, overseeing competitions, tournaments, and community rugby, while managing crucial stakeholder relationships and agreements. NZR chief executive Steve Lancaster described the role as "critical," noting that Collins is well-equipped to advance a vision that connects the community game with professional environments. Collins himself expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, telling RNZ that he has seen the game from many perspectives — as a player, leader, and in game development. "It is an honour to be given this opportunity and it's a role I don't take lightly," he said. The appointment is part of a broader executive reform under the leadership of board chair David Kirk. This overhaul followed an independent review in 2023 which found previous governance structures were no longer suitable. As part of this wider strategy to enhance the game’s management, NZR is also currently in the final stages of recruiting for an executive-level Kaihautū Māori, further reflecting the organisation's commitment to leadership that represents the diverse facets of the New Zealand rugby community.