Former captain Rory Best appointed as Ulster general manager

Rory Best has been appointed as Ulster's new general manager. Pic: Eoin Smith/Sportsfile

Former Ulster captain Rory Best has been appointed as the new general manager of the province.

Best, who also captained Ireland during an illustrious career, returns to Affidea Stadium in a leadership role that will see him "play a key part in shaping the province’s future both on and off the pitch".

Speaking on his appointment, Best said: “Ulster Rugby has been a huge part of my life, and it’s an incredible honour to return in this capacity. I know what this club means to the players, the staff, our supporters, and sponsors. 

"I’m excited to play a role in helping Ulster achieve its potential, building on the strong foundations that are already in place.”

Best made 219 appearances for the province between 2004 and 2019, while he earned 124 international caps and captained his international side to historic victories, including Grand Slam success in 2018.

Following his retirement from professional rugby, Best has remained deeply involved in leadership and business, most recently working with global insurance broker The Ardonagh Group, where he brought the same strategic insight and people-first approach that defined his playing career.

In his new role, Best will "oversee professional rugby operations, player development, and performance pathways, bringing his vast experience, leadership qualities, and deep understanding of the province’s culture to the fore".

Ulster CEO Hugh McCaughey added: “Rory’s appointment is a landmark moment for Ulster Rugby. He 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. 

"We believe we have the strategy and rugby talent to take Ulster back to the top of the game, and Rory's role is to make sure we deliver on that potential.”