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Scottish Rugby sacks CEO Alex Williamson

BBC Sport •
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Scottish Rugby has dismissed its chief executive, Alex Williamson, with immediate effect following an independent investigation into his conduct. Appointed in September 2024, Williamson began his role in early 2025. He was placed on extended leave in late May, with no reason initially provided.

John Mc Guigan, chairman of Scottish Rugby Limited, stated that the board concluded Williamson's conduct fell "significantly below the standards" set by the organisation. Current chief financial officer David White will serve as interim chief executive while a permanent replacement is sought. This dismissal follows a series of leadership challenges for Scottish Rugby, including a failed attempt to recruit Mark Darbon as successor to former chief executive Mark Dodson.

The next 14 months are crucial for Scottish Rugby, with significant fixtures including Nations Championship games and the Six Nations. Williamson's appointment was initially praised for his commercial background, but the current uncertainty at the top contrasts with recent on-field successes for the Scotland team.