Why Padraig Power’s Rise to IRFU Deputy CEO Could Signal a Game-Changing Shift You Didn’t See Coming
Ever wonder what it takes to steer one of Ireland’s biggest sports organizations through waves of change and growth? Well, the IRFU just dropped a power move—appointing Padraig Power as deputy CEO, a guy whose name practically spells commercial wizardry in Irish rugby circles. Having climbed up the ranks since 2000, Padraig’s not just wearing a new hat; he’s doubling down as chief commercial officer, juggling an empire of ticketing, sponsorships, and matchday revenue like a seasoned pro. With the CEO’s role ballooning to meet international demands, Padraig’s stepping in to keep the ship steady, ensuring Irish rugby’s growth curve doesn’t hit a snag. It’s a classic case of knowing the game inside out and mastering the business side—a rare combo that’s about to power the union into its next chapter. Curious to see how this unfolds? LEARN MORE
The IRFU has announced the appointment of Padraig Power as deputy CEO with immediate effect.
In addition to his new role, Power will continue to serve as chief commercial officer and maintain responsibility for the IRFU’s commercial portfolio and commercial strategy.
Power joined the IRFU in 2000 as promotions and marketing manager before being promoted to commercial & marketing director in 2005.
Over more than two decades with the organisation, he has driven sustained commercial growth across all IRFU revenue streams, including ticketing, hospitality, matchday revenues and sponsorship.
Under his stewardship, the IRFU has built the largest sports sponsorship portfolio in Ireland, partnering with leading global brands such as Vodafone, Diageo, Canterbury, Aviva, PwC, and many others.
In 2022, his remit was further expanded to include oversight of the IRFU’s operations function, and he assumed the position of chief commercial officer.
With the evolving demands on the IRFU’s CEO, including an increasing requirement to represent Irish rugby internationally on global tournament bodies, the deputy CEO role will enable effective delegation of key operational responsibilities as and when required.
He currently serves on the Board of the United Rugby Championship (URC) and the Aviva Stadium Board, and is a member of the London Finals Organising Committee for the new Nations Championship tournament.
“Padraig has been an integral part of the IRFU’s success for over two decades, and his leadership has contributed significantly to the financial strength and commercial reputation of Irish Rugby,” said Declan Madden, chair of the IRFU.
“The enhancement of his role to include Deputy CEO reflects both the increasing complexity of the organisation and our confidence in his ability to help assist the Union through its next phase of growth.
“Padraig brings experience, stability and a deep understanding of the game, and we are fortunate to have him step into an expanded role.”
Photo: Padraig Power. (Pic: Sportfile)
Snapple Zero Sugar Peach Tea, 16 fl oz Recycled Plastic Bottle
$2.04 (as of March 20, 2026 02:09 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Replacement Voice Remote Control for Fire Stick/Amazon Toshiba Insignia Fire Smart TVs(1st/2nd/3rd Gen)
$13.97 (as of March 20, 2026 02:13 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
TP-Link Tapo 1080P Indoor Security Camera for Baby Monitor, Dog Camera w/Motion Detection, 2-Way Audio Siren, Night Vision, Cloud & SD Card Storage, Works w/Alexa & Google Home (Tapo C100)
$15.97 (as of March 20, 2026 02:12 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Nutramax Cosequin for Dogs Joint Health Supplement, Contains Glucosamine for Dogs, Plus Chondroitin and MSM, Supports Healthy Joints, For All Breeds and Sizes, Chewable Tablets, 132 Count
$34.91 (as of March 20, 2026 02:04 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Post Comment