(Reuters) – Steve Phillips has resigned from his position as CEO of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), the governing body said on Sunday after he came under pressure for its handling of allegations of misogyny, sexism and racism within the WRU.
In a BBC Wales documentary, several former female WRU employees made allegations about comments and behaviour that they said were sexist and discriminatory.
WRU chairman Ieuan Evans had also said he would set up an external task force to examine accusations. Phillips had until now remained in the role despite calls from politicians for him to leave.
“It is with a huge amount of regret that I have decided to hand in my resignation,” Phillips said in a statement.
“I have always had the best interests of Welsh rugby at the heart of my every action and thought, but have come to the conclusion that it is now time for someone else to lead the way.
“I am absolutely aligned with Ieuan’s commitment to re-examine and further improve the cultures and behaviours at the WRU and fully support the formation of a new independent Taskforce.”
The WRU said no allegations were made against Phillips in the documentary and that he was “not accused of any wrong doing”.
Nigel Walker, who was appointed its Performance Director in July 2021, will take over as the WRU’s acting CEO with immediate effect.
“Nigel will work closely with the new Taskforce and help lead us through the next urgent steps, as we seek to learn from the current serious and significant issues we face,” Evans said.
(Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Toby Chopra)
