Munster appoint Avan Lee interim CEO

Munster Rugby and the Irish Rugby Football Union have appointed Avan Lee as the province’s interim chief executive, with Lee expected to take up the role toward the end of October. He will succeed Ian Flanagan, who Munster said will step down at the end of the month after serving as CEO since 2019. Lee previously served as chief executive of the Hurricanes, a New Zealand Super Rugby franchise, for about a decade. Reports place his tenure from 2015 to 2025. His background also includes work in rugby administration and time living and playing club rugby in Ireland. The appointment is interim, and the reports do not establish when or how Munster will decide on a permanent successor. Lee has said he hopes to remain beyond the interim period and believes a strong performance could lead to a permanent appointment. His interest does not determine the outcome of any future recruitment process. Munster Rugby and the IRFU said Lee will work with the Munster Rugby Board, players, staff and stakeholders across the province. The organisations described his experience in professional rugby as valuable during the transition.