The Rugby League European
Federation has appointed Chris Thair as its new general manager, taking over
from Danny Kazandjian who has become global operations manager of the
International Federation.
Thair, (41) will take up
his new role on 1st November and has a long history in developing rugby league, most recently as CEO and a director of Wales Rugby League.
“After an exhaustive and
comprehensive recruitment process, where the standard of applicant was both
heartening and exceptional, Chris’s qualities stood out,” said RLEF chairman
Maurice Watkins, MBE. “He has been involved in the sport at all levels, from
player to development officer through to running a governing body and he has a
clear perception of where the RLEF can make maximum impact in the years ahead.”
Watkins added: “I am very
grateful to WRL for facilitating Chris’ move across and look forward to working
with him in what is shaping up to be a very exciting and progressive time for
the sport in the northern hemisphere, not least with a World Cup on the horizon
in 2021.”
St Helens-born Thair, a
graduate of Loughborough University, captained Great Britain and England
Students and has been a development manager in London and the North West, also
working for the Rugby Football League in community partnerships, club support
and salary cap and licensing roles, before moving to Wales RL in April 2013.
“I am very much looking
forward to enhancing the great work that has gone on at the RLEF in recent
times,” said Thair. “One of the first tasks is to write a new strategy and plan
for the organisation and build upon the growing confidence in the international
game. Helping our member nations become stronger governing bodies and
developing the existing international competitions – along with some new
properties - will be at the heart of it.”
Thair confirmed: “I am
extremely grateful to Wales Rugby League for the support they have given me,
and there is now a solid platform established for them from which to build
upon. I have every confidence the RLEF can take more major steps forward
and I’m excited about what the future will bring.”