Songezo Nayo has been appointed as the new managing director of SA Rugby. Nayo’s appointment was confirmed by the board chairperson, Dr Theunie Lategan.
Nayo was among more than 80 applicants for the post.
”Songezo’s intimate knowledge of the game, his capabilities and acceptance by all stakeholders were key determining factors in the appointment. We wish him all of the best for this important challenge,” said Lategan.
Nayo joined the South African Rugby Football Union (Sarfu) as general manager in the office of the CEO in January 2000 and was promoted to the position of deputy managing director under former MD Rian Oberholzer in January 2002.
Following Oberholzer’s resignation in December last year, Nayo has served as acting MD of Sarfu’s commercial arm.
Sarfu president Brian van Rooyen described Nayo as a highly capable administrator with a broad knowledge of the many issues concerning the sport both locally and internationally.
”Songezo has been an integral part of the restructuring of the game in South Africa,” said Van Rooyen. ”His good business acumen and wide knowledge of the business end of the game were important factors in determining his appointment. It was also vital that we maintained continuity within the organisation”.
Speaking from London, where he is attending a Sanzar meeting, Nayo said he was thrilled at the appointment.
”I am grateful for the faith that the board has placed in me to lead SA Rugby’s drive to further commercialise and grow rugby in South Africa. I look forward to the challenge,” he said. — Sapa