Rory Best appointed Ulster Rugby general manager

Ellen O'Donoghue

Rory Best has been appointed Ulster Rugby's new general manager.

Mr Best, who captained Ireland and Ulster during his career, is to return to Affidea Stadium in a leadership role, which the organisation has said will see him play a key part in shaping the province's future, both on and off the pitch.

The new manager made 219 appearances for the province between 2004 and 2019.

He earned 124 international caps and captained Ireland to their Grand Slam success in 2019.

Following his retirement from professional rugby, Mr Best has most recently worked with global insurance broker The Ardonagh Group.

In his new role, he will oversee professional rugby operations, player development and performance pathways.

Ulster Rugby's chief executive, Hugh McCaughey, called Mr Best's appointment a "landmark moment".

"He is a figure who commands enormous respect across the game, not just for his achievements but for the way he represents this club and province," Mr McCaughey said.

"Bringing Rory back into the fold is not just about his leadership, but also about reconnecting with the values and identity that have always made Ulster special. We believe we have the strategy and rugby talent to take Ulster back to the top of the game, and Rory's role is to make sure we deliver on that potential.”

Mr Best said the role is "an incredible honour".

"I know what this club means to the players, the staff, our supporters, and sponsors. I’m excited to play a role in helping Ulster achieve its potential, building on the strong foundations that are already in place," he said.