Hurricanes back interim CEO Tony Philp to stay on permanently

Hurricanes interim CEO Tony Philp clearly made a strong impression in his time at the helm, with the club announcing he will continue on in the role on a permanent basis.

Philp assumed the interim role last December and has been overseeing a period of significant change at the Wellington club, with the Wellington Rugby Football Union selling its 50 per cent stake to NZ Sport Investment Limited. New Zealand Rugby was also involved in the sale.

The club revealed operating losses in the range of NZD $2 million when announcing Philp’s initial appointment on an interim basis and NZ Sport Investment Limited’s new ownership stake.

It appears Philp’s leadership throughout the structural transition has won him the support of the Hurricanes board, and he will now serve as the club’s permanent CEO.

“As a board, we are delighted that Tony has accepted the position as CEO,” Hurricanes chair Malcolm Gillies said.

“We believe he has the passion, drive, and enthusiasm to lead the Hurricanes into the future. Tony has the unanimous support of the Hurricanes management and board, and we would like to congratulate him on his appointment.”

Philp’s previous experience includes time with World Rugby and the Waikato Rugby Union, a lengthy stint as New Zealand Rugby (NZR) High Performance Sevens Manager from 2007 to 2021, and as Hurricanes GM Rugby from 2021 to 2025.

In the NZR role, he was involved in delivering multiple Olympic and Commonwealth medals, and Sevens World Cup and World Sevens Series titles. With the Hurricanes, he has been influential in developing the Hurricanes’ vision and values while helping establish the Hurricanes Poua in Super Rugby Aupiki.

A former Chief, Philp says he is thrilled to get the role of Hurricanes CEO.

“I am incredibly proud to help guide our club into its next exciting chapter,” Philp said.

“It is a privilege to work alongside an exceptional board, staff, and players who share a winning mindset to strengthen our legacy and are deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in our community.”