“Rugby has given me so much throughout my life, and I’m looking forward to giving back.
“It’s an exciting time for New Zealand Rugby, with outstanding people joining the organisation in the high performance space. To work alongside Don Tricker, Mike Collins and so many talented people across the game is something I am genuinely excited by.
“I look forward to developing systems where players, coaches, referees and support staff can all thrive. Sustainable success doesn’t happen by accident. It is built over time through strong relationships, clear systems, quality decision-making and a shared commitment to continuous improvement.
“This role is about young boys and girls coming through community rugby, through our age-grade teams and being the best in the world in our national teams. That’s what inspires me.”
Tricker said: “Conrad brings an exceptional combination of lived experience, intellect and credibility. We are delighted to have recruited someone of Conrad’s standing and experience.
“He has seen all parts of the New Zealand rugby system through his own development and understands what excellence looks like at the highest level.
“This role is about strengthening the entire men’s high performance pathway, from talent identification and development through to our national teams. Ultimately, we are developing people that our national teams want to pick and Conrad’s ability to take people with him makes him exceptionally well placed to lead this work.”