Mike Brown set to leave Esher for Loughborough role in 2027

Mike Brown is set to leave his current role at National Two East side Esher after accepting a full-time position as Director of Rugby at Loughborough University.

Former England and Harlequins full-back Brown will continue with Esher until the end of January 2027, before moving into his new position.

Esher say Brown will continue to provide advice and direction to the club during the transition, while also working with Head Coach Liam Slatem and the coaching team.

Brown joined the EEEs in December of last year, with the club sitting in 10th in National Two East and on a six-match losing run.

He helped guide the Surrey-based outfit away from any relegation danger and has played a significant role in the development of the club’s senior rugby programme.

Esher say the decision will not change their ambitions, with head coach Slatem and the existing coaching team continuing to oversee the senior squad as the season progresses.

Esher President Mark Bennett said he was "personally disappointed" to see Brown leave his current position so early, but praised the impact he has made during his time at the club.

"Mike has made a tangible and positive impact across Esher within the Seniors, as a community and also within the Club in a very short space of time," Bennett said.

"We wish him all the best in his career progression via the new, wide-ranging, full-time role with Loughborough University."

Brown said the decision to accept the role at Loughborough was a "difficult" because of the relationships he has developed during his time at Esher.

"I've really enjoyed my time at Esher, and I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have played a part in moving the rugby programme forward," he told the club website.

"I've loved working with everyone across the club, from the players and coaches through to the staff and volunteers. It's a special club with amazing people, and I'm proud of what we've put in place so far."

Brown will remain fully involved with Esher until his transition to Loughborough in January, after which the club say they will explore opportunities for him to retain a strategic connection with the club.

The club are expected to work with Brown, Slatem and the wider coaching team over the coming months to determine the management and coaching structure from January 2027 onwards.

Esher have won two of their opening three games this season, with a 34-31 last-gasp victory over Canterbury in their most recent outing.