Welsh Rugby Union chief executive Steve Phillips resigns after claims of racism, sexism and homophobia in organisation | UK News
Steve Phillips has stepped down as chief executive of the Rugby League of Wales after the organization made statements about misogyny, sexism, racism and homophobia.
He had previously resisted calls to quit after airing a documentary in which he heard allegations of a “toxic culture” at the game’s regulator in Wales.
Several former staff members have joined the BBC Wales investigation.
Charlotte Wathan, general manager of women’s rugby until she resigned last February, told how a male colleague said in front of others in the office that he wanted to “rape” her, in when another unnamed collaborator said she had contemplated suicide after her experiences. bullying and sexism in the workplace.
In response, WRU president Ieuan Evans announced the creation of an independent task force to look at “culture and behavior” at the organization.
Phillips attended the meeting about the move, but later decided that “it was time to let someone else lead the way”.
There have been no charges against him on the show and he has not been charged with any wrongdoing.
Phillips said in a statement: “I deeply regret my decision to step down.
“I have always put the best interests of Welsh rugby at the center of all my actions and thoughts, but have come to the conclusion that it is time to let someone else lead the way.”
He added: “I have been recorded as saying that I deeply regret the feelings and sentiments expressed by former employees recently.”
‘Existential crisis’
Former Olympic hurdler and Welsh international Nigel Walker, who served as the federation’s chief operating officer, will take over as acting chief executive with immediate effect.
He said: “There is no doubt that Welsh rugby is facing an existential crisis.
“This is a wake-up call. Perhaps it was an overdue call. The first step to recovery is to acknowledge the problem.
“We must now listen attentively to what people outside of our organization are telling us.
“We care and are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we work hard in this area with dedicated resources and investment. But we need to do better. I need to do better and we will.
“We will take the necessary remedial steps and adhere closely to what the new task force advises.”
Walker, who also served as BBC Wales head of sport for five years, said: “I would like to thank Steve Phillips, whom I have always found open, caring and dedicated to football. Welsh education.
“I will work tirelessly and relentlessly with our president Ieuan Evans, with our board, and with the newly appointed task force to ensure the WRU moves to a better place. .”
‘Serious and important issues’
Evans thanked the outgoing chief executive for his “dedication and support to Welsh rugby”.
He added: “Nigel will work closely with the new task force and help lead us through the next urgent steps, as we seek to learn from the serious and critical issues of the moment. that we are facing.”