Rory Best will return to Ulster Rugby as General Manager, succeeding Bryn Cunningham who announced he was stepping down in September.
The former Ireland and Ulster captain retired from playing after the 2019 World Cup before taking up coaching roles with Fiji and Major League Rugby side Seattle Seawolves, while also featuring as a pundit.
However, the 43-year-old returns back to Ravenhill in a different guise as the province continues a rebuilding job on and off the pitch following a difficult few seasons.
Ulster confirmed the appointment in a statement on Wednesday, adding that Best will oversee professional rugby operations, player development and performance pathways for the club.
“Ulster Rugby has been a huge part of my life, and it’s an incredible honour to return in this capacity,” Best said.
“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.”
Ulster Rugby CEO Hugh McCaughey called the appointment a “landmark moment” for the club, adding that the recruitment of the former captain was about “reconnecting with the values and identity that have always made Ulster special.”
Cunningham, who played 150 times for Ulster, announced last month he was stepping down as general manager after 11 years in the role “to take on a new challenge”.
Part of Cunningham’s remit was in player recruitment and retention, while the 47-year-old confirmed a “robust 3–5-year strategy” has been put in place to turn the province’s fortunes around.
His announcement came just days before a pre-season friendly with Edinburgh, having secured the signatures of Juarno Augustus and Angus Bell.
Best will be tasked with building on Cunningham’s work to help turn Ulster back into contenders in the United Rugby Championship and return to the Champions Cup, having missed out on qualification for Europe’s blue riband competition this season.
