Munster CEO Ian Flanagan steps down after six years at the province

Ian Flanagan is stepping down as Munster Rugby chief executive at the end of October, the province confirmed, ending a tenure that began when he was appointed to the role in 2019.

Flanagan informed the Munster Rugby Board of his decision, with the IRFU and the province set to name an interim CEO in the coming weeks. A formal recruitment process for a permanent successor will follow, adding another off-field transition to the province’s early-season agenda.

The outgoing CEO oversaw the development and delivery of Munster’s €7.3 million Centre of Excellence in Cork, a facility designed as a long-term investment in player development and the wider game across the province.

Munster Rugby chair Ger Malone paid tribute to Flanagan’s contribution, singling out the Cork project as a defining achievement of his time in charge. “Ian has served Munster Rugby with dedication and commitment during his time as CEO,” Malone said. “He played a central role in the development and delivery of the €7.3 million Centre of Excellence in Cork, which represents an important long-term investment in player development and the wider game across the province. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Ian for his contribution to Munster Rugby and wish him every success for the future.”

Flanagan reflected warmly on his time leading the province. “Leading my home province has been a huge privilege,” he said. “I would like to thank the many people I have worked alongside during my time with Munster Rugby, including our volunteers, staff, sponsors, coaches and players. I would also like to thank our supporters for their unwavering commitment to Munster Rugby over many years. I wish the province every success in the future.”

Munster confirmed that details of the interim appointment will be announced shortly.