New Zealand Rugby appoint 94-Test All Black as head of men's high performance

New Zealand Rugby has found Mike Anthony’s successor as Head of Men’s High Performance, and it’s a familiar face who will be stepping into the role.

Ex-All Black Conrad Smith has been appointed to the position and will begin in September, working under new Director of High Performance Don Tricker in NZR’s recently expanded high performance structure.

The 94-Test midfielder will “lead the delivery of the men’s high-performance programme across the New Zealand game, including working closely with Super Rugby clubs and Provincial Unions”, says the governing body.

A two-time Rugby World Cup winner, Smith retired from the international game in 2015, spending his next three seasons in France with Top 14 outfit Pau. Smith, who holds a law degree, has since taken up roles on the Taranaki Rugby Union Board and has served as Chief of Rugby Operations for the International Rugby Players Association.

He reflected on the opportunities rugby has given him and was thrilled to be in a position to contribute to the new generations coming through.

“Rugby has given me so much throughout my life, and I’m looking forward to giving back,” Smith said.

“It’s an exciting time for New Zealand Rugby, with outstanding people joining the organisation in the high performance space. To work alongside Don Tricker, Mike Collins, and so many talented people across the game is something I am genuinely excited by.

“I look forward to developing systems where players, coaches, referees and support staff can all thrive. Sustainable success doesn’t happen by accident. It is built over time through strong relationships, clear systems, quality decision-making and a shared commitment to continuous improvement.

“This role is about young boys and girls coming through community rugby, through our age-grade teams and being the best in the world in our national teams. That’s what inspires me.”

Tricker was confident that Smith could help evolve the high-performance systems crucial to the game’s success at all levels.

“Conrad brings an exceptional combination of lived experience, intellect and credibility. We are delighted to have recruited someone of Conrad’s standing and experience,” he said.

“He has seen all parts of the New Zealand rugby system through his own development and understands what excellence looks like at the highest level.

“This role is about strengthening the entire men’s high performance pathway, from talent identification and development through to our national teams. Ultimately, we are developing people that our national teams want to pick, and Conrad’s ability to take people with him makes him exceptionally well placed to lead this work.”