Two-time World Cup winner Conrad Smith appointed New Zealand Rugby's head of men's high performance

New Zealand Rugby has appointed former All Blacks centre Conrad Smith as its Head of Men’s High Performance, the governing body confirmed this week. Smith, who earned 94 Test caps and won two Rugby World Cups during his playing career, will take up the position in September.

Smith steps into the role vacated by Mike Anthony, working directly under new Director of High Performance Don Tricker within NZR’s recently expanded high-performance structure. According to NZR, he will “lead the delivery of the men’s high-performance programme across the New Zealand game, including working closely with Super Rugby clubs and Provincial Unions.”

After retiring from international rugby in 2015, Smith spent three seasons in France with Top 14 club Pau before transitioning into administration. He holds a law degree and has since served on the Taranaki Rugby Union Board and as Chief of Rugby Operations for the International Rugby Players Association — a background that gives him a broad view of the game beyond the elite level.

Speaking on his appointment, Smith said the role represented a chance to invest back into the system that shaped him. “Rugby has given me so much throughout my life, and I’m looking forward to giving back,” he said. “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.”

Smith also framed the position in terms of the full development pathway rather than solely the All Blacks. “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 was emphatic about the quality of the appointment, citing Smith’s rare blend of on-field achievement and off-field credibility. “Conrad brings an exceptional combination of lived experience, intellect and credibility,” Tricker said. “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.”

Tricker added that the remit extends well beyond the national team setup. “This role is about strengthening the entire men’s high performance pathway, from talent identification and development through to our national teams. Conrad’s ability to take people with him makes him exceptionally well placed to lead this work.”