Ulster and the IRFU have selected Hugh McCaughey, who previously served as the chief executive of the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland, to take on the role of interim chief executive. This appointment comes in the wake of Jonny Petrie’s recent resignation, with McCaughey set to commence his duties next Wednesday. Earlier in his career, he coached several prominent rugby players such as Rory Best, Stephen Ferris, Chris Henry, Tommy Bowe and Andrew Trimble at youth levels. Moreover, he managed the Ulster and Irish Sevens teams at the 2009 Rugby World Cup.
McCaughey has experience in coaching at school levels and presided over the Ulster Rugby academy from 2015 till 2019. Post-retirement, he has worked with numerous charities, most recently taking the position of chairman at Crescendo in October 2022.
Paul Terrington, chair of Ulster Rugby’s management committee, in a statement notably longer than the announcement of Petrie’s exit, welcomed Hugh’s appointment by acknowledging his leadership skills, both in the public sector and rugby world, as greatly beneficial during this time. McCaughey’s documented success in the demanding healthcare sector, he said, is a positive indicator of the potential influence he can have on Ulster Rugby.
McCaughey expressed both pride and excitement at his appointment as Interim CEO of Ulster Rugby, mentioning his 40-year-long passionate support of the team. He recalled the various roles he has played for Ulster Rugby, including that of coach, manager, player, and enthusiastic fan. Despite the interim nature of the role, McCaughey’s vision is clear – addressing challenges, effecting change in the immediate term, and laying the groundwork for future victories. He pledged to dedicate himself completely to furthering the success of the province he holds dear.