Ospreys appoint Griffiths and Lancaster

Ospreys appoint Dan Griffiths and Richard Lancaster to senior leadership roles as the club prepares for its move to St Helen’s.
Ospreys appoint Dan Griffiths and Richard Lancaster to senior leadership roles as the club prepares for its move to St Helen’s.
©Steve Haag

Ospreys Rugby have announced a new leadership structure, appointing Dan Griffiths as Head of Rugby and Richard Lancaster as Managing Director (Business) as the Welsh club prepares for its move to St Helen’s.

Dan Griffiths appointed Ospreys Head of Rugby

Griffiths steps into the senior rugby role after 16 years with the Ospreys, having built extensive experience across the club’s academy and first-team operations.

As Rugby General Manager, he oversaw the academy and senior environment while playing a leading role in player recruitment, retention and rugby strategy. In his new position, Griffiths will lead the club’s rugby operations and work with coaches and departmental heads across development and performance.

Griffiths said the move to St Helen’s marked an exciting new chapter and highlighted the balance between emerging talent, new recruits and established players within the squad.

"Having been part of the Ospreys for 16 years, I am incredibly proud to have the opportunity to further develop my role.

It’s an exciting new chapter for the Ospreys with the development of St Helens and one which staff and players are looking forward to being a part of".

Richard Lancaster to lead Ospreys business operations

Lancaster has been promoted from Commercial Director to Managing Director (Business), taking responsibility for the Ospreys’ wider business operations.

He has led the club’s commercial strategy and played a central role in its relationship with Swansea Council and the development plans for St Helen’s. Lancaster will also represent the Ospreys at the Professional Rugby Board and in dealings with the Welsh Rugby Union, United Rugby Championship and European Professional Club Rugby.

Ospreys leadership prepares for St Helen’s move

The two executives will work together as the Ospreys prepare to operate from their new permanent home at St Helen’s.

Board members Roger Blyth, Alun Wyn Jones and Rob Davies will provide strategic oversight and support to the executive leadership team. Blyth said Griffiths and Lancaster had demonstrated the leadership and understanding required to guide the club through its next phase.

The new leadership structure takes effect immediately.