Sir James Wates CBE named Chair of RFU Board

Sir James has had a distinguished career in the construction and business sectors, marked by significant leadership roles and contributions to industry standards and charitable causes.    

He brings extensive leadership experience to the RFU alongside a deep love of the game of rugby, stretching back to his early playing days.     

He is currently a board director of the Wates Group, one of the largest privately-owned construction, development and property services companies in the UK, having served as Chairman from 2013 to 2023, and is also Chairman of Vestey Holdings Ltd, Chairman of Tewke, and on the Board for The King’s Trust 50th Anniversary Campaign.    

He has served in the past as Chairman of Family Business UK, Chairman of the BRE (Building Research Establishment) Trust, the CBI Construction Council, the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board), and Co-Chair of the Government sponsored Infrastructure Exports: UK and Build UK.    

In 2018, he was appointed by the Government to chair the coalition group developing corporate governance principles for large private companies (the so-called ‘Wates Principles’). In 2012 he was awarded the CBE and in 2019 was knighted for services to business and to charity.    

Sir James has a long involvement in community rugby at Dorking RFC, where he played age grade and adult rugby, and where he continues to hold the role of honorary VP.  He is a lifelong England rugby fan, has been a debenture holder at Allianz Stadium for many years, and he believes passionately in the power of sport to change people’s lives.   

The selection process was led by Polly Williams, Senior Independent Director on the RFU Board, with the assistance of external firm, Korn Ferry. There was a robust longlist and shortlist process, and the panel included RFU Council members with strong connections with the community game at all levels, and also those with a background in areas such as business, finance, and governance.    

The RFU would like to especially thank Sir Bill Beaumont for his time and dedication to the role over the past six months, having taken on the position on an interim basis following the resignation of Tom Ilube in December 2024.    

Polly Williams, Senior Independent Director on the RFU Board, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Sir James Wates will be joining the RFU Board as the new Chair. It was a diligent process that took time to ensure that the right appointment was made.

“He was an outstanding candidate, unanimously chosen, and he will bring excellent leadership experience, a commitment to improve and grow the sport he loves and wide-ranging insight and knowledge in important areas including innovation, sustainability and technology.  

“His industry experience will also be a significant asset as we seek to modernise and redevelop Allianz Stadium in the coming years.    

“The Board and everyone at the RFU would like to thank Sir Bill Beaumont for his energy and skill throughout his time as Interim Chair. He came on board at a challenging time for the organisation and he has contributed enormously.”    

Sir Bill Beaumont said: “When I set out in the role at the end of last year, I wanted to play my part in uniting the game and helping to ensure member voices were heard across the RFU.     

“As I leave the position, handing over to the very capable hands of Sir James Wates, I truly believe we are on the right course and that the future of our great sport is a bright one. I look forward to continued involvement in the English game but for now wish Sir James very well in this important role.”    

Sir James Wates, RFU Board Chair, said: “It is a true honour to be named Chair of the Board of the RFU, and I can’t wait to get started.  English Rugby is steeped in legacy and history, and it is a history that the country should be proud of, while also being excited about what is to come.     

“Later this year, we have the Women’s Rugby World Cup hosted across England and I am looking forward to this happening so soon into my tenure.  

“I will do my utmost to maximise the growth of the game, with the support of the RFU Board and wider team in the years ahead and engaging as much as possible in the rugby community at all levels across England."