Former skipper Rory Best lands new Ulster Rugby role

Ulster Rugby have confirmed that former captain Rory Best has been appointed as the province’s new General Manager.

Best, who made 219 appearances for Ulster between 2004 and 2019 and won 124 caps for Ireland, returns to the organisation in a senior leadership capacity. His remit will include oversight of professional rugby operations, player development, and performance pathways.

The 42-year-old’s appointment follows a series of off-field restructures at the province, and marks a significant move to reconnect the organisation with one of its most decorated figures.

Best said he was honoured to return to the province in a management role.

“Ulster Rugby has been a huge part of my life, and it’s an incredible honour to return in this capacity. I’m excited to play a role in helping Ulster achieve its potential, building on the strong foundations that are already in place.”

Since retiring from professional rugby in 2019, Best has worked in various leadership and business roles, including with the global insurance broker The Ardonagh Group. His return to Ulster signals a new phase in the province’s efforts to strengthen its rugby structures and restore consistency at the elite level.

Ulster CEO Hugh McCaughey said the appointment represented a “landmark moment” for the club: “Rory 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. 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.”