Spanton joins the Union from Hockey Wales where she is currently Head of Sport, leading radical change with regards to culture, philosophy and growth of the game. She also has extensive board level experience, chairing the Welsh Rowing Board of Directors.
Caroline will spearhead the development of all levels of women’s and girls’ rugby, up to and including the national team, and create a greater equality of opportunity within rugby.
She said, “Rugby is the national sport of Wales and I’m thrilled to be joining the Union at such an exciting time for women’s sport.
“It’s important to create good role models for women’s sport and achieving excellence at the elite end of the game will be key to that. In addition, my career to date has always had a particular emphasis on community sport – developing, motivating and empowering people and fostering an inclusive sporting environment, and I hope to bring some of that experience to rugby.”
WRU Head of Rugby Josh Lewsey added, “Caroline’s appointment, and the importance we are giving to the role is key to our strategy as a rugby department.
“Caroline will be an ambassador for the women’s game in Wales, on an international level, and raising the profile of the game is an important factor in growing women’s rugby here.
“She will be working with clubs, schools, colleges and Universities, promoting the health and social benefits of rugby, in all formats and increasing the involvement of women and girls in every aspect of the game by implementing the necessary structures.
“Caroline has personal experience of elite sport but also has a proven track record in sport development, increasing participation levels, working through culture change and improving standards in performance.
“We chose Caroline from an impressive list of candidates after a thorough and rigorous process involving ourselves and Sport Wales. As such, we know she will bring a great energy and drive to a key area of growth for us – women’s and girls’ rugby.”
Caroline Spanton will take up the post on January 5.
