Short, 48, who lives in Whitland, Carmarthenshire is also chairman of internationally-acclaimed Welsh Whisky distillery Penderyn and takes over the Scarlets chair with immediate effect.
Evans said that the time was now right for him to hand over the reins at the region and has been working closely with Nigel Short over the past two years on regional business. He said he had “huge confidence” in his successor and that the news was “a big and positive step forward” for the Scarlets. Short joined the Scarlets Board in September 2010.
“The time was right for me personally. This is a very positive announcement and a big step in preparing the Scarlets for the next phase of development. I’m handing over with huge confidence and belief to a new chairman who is a highly successful international businessman and passionate Welshman and Scarlet. He has vast experience and a range of skills ideally suited to this role including strong financial management and a flair for marketing.
WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis, said: “Huw Evans has worked tirelessly for nearly a decade and a half for Llanelli and the Scarlets. He leaves the Scarlets after a distinguished career as chairman where the region has come through major change. We wish him well in the future and we look forward to working with and alongside Nigel Short as Welsh rugby continues to prosper.”
