Munster appoint experienced former Super Rugby franchise boss as interim chief executive
Munster's players form a huddle during a URC match and the Irish province's interim chief executive Avan Lee (inset).
Munster Rugby and the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) have confirmed the appointment of Avan Lee as the United Rugby Championship outfit’s interim chief executive.
Lee is one of the most experienced executives in club rugby and brings more than a decade of leadership at the highest level of the professional game.
From 2015 to 2025, he served as chief executive of the Hurricanes, who are one of New Zealand’s leading Super Rugby franchises.
Across a career spanning rugby administration, governance, commercial development and high-performance sport, Lee has built a strong reputation for strategic leadership, organisational growth and stakeholder engagement.
Takes over from Ian Flanagan
The New Zealander comes in after it was revealed last week that Munster‘s current chief executive Ian Flanagan will step down from his position at the end of October.
Flanagan has been in his position since 2019 and his resignation came after he received plenty of criticism from Munster supporters and former players regarding governance issues at the Irish province.
Munster Rugby chairperson Ger Malone welcomed Lee’s appointment.
“We are delighted to appoint Avan as interim CEO of Munster Rugby,” he said.
“Throughout the interview process, Avan impressed the board with both the breadth of his rugby experience and his clear understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing professional sports organisations today.
“He brings strong leadership credentials, significant rugby expertise and a collaborative approach that we believe will be hugely valuable to Munster Rugby.
“The board has every confidence that he will provide strong stewardship of the province and we look forward to working closely with him in the months ahead.”
Munster: Ian Flanagan set to step down as chief executive after recent criticism
IRFU chief executive Kevin Potts believes Lee will be successful in his new role.
“Avan is a highly experienced sports executive with a deep understanding of professional rugby and the wider sporting landscape,” he said.
“The IRFU is committed to supporting Munster Rugby in achieving success both on and off the field, and we are confident that Avan’s leadership, experience and strategic insight will make a positive impact during this important period for the province.”
Speaking following his appointment, Lee said: “I am honoured to be appointed interim CEO of Munster Rugby. This is a province with a proud history, passionate supporters and a strong reputation within the game.
“While my professional career has taken me around the world, Ireland has been an important part of my own rugby journey.
Want more from Planet Rugby? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for world-class coverage you can trust.
No stranger to Irish rugby
“I spent nearly a decade living here, including playing club rugby, and I developed a deep appreciation for the game’s place in Irish communities and the unique connection between rugby clubs and their supporters.
“There are important challenges ahead but I firmly believe there is also tremendous opportunity. I am excited to work alongside our players, coaches, staff, volunteers, partners and supporters as we build on Munster Rugby’s strengths and shape a successful future.
“My message to everyone connected with the province is simple: we are stronger when we stand together. If we unite behind a shared ambition and a commitment to excellence, I am confident Munster Rugby can achieve great things in the years ahead.”
Lee will take up his position towards the end of October and will work closely with the Munster Rugby board, the IRFU, players, staff and stakeholders across the province to support the continued development and success of Munster Rugby.