The Board of Directors of Hong Kong China Rugby (HKCR) has received notification from its Chief Executive, Robbie McRobbie, that he intends to step down from his role in mid-2024.

HKCR Chairman Chris Brooke said that this early indication from Robbie of his decision would provide the Board with sufficient time both to identify a suitable successor as well as to manage a smooth handover in relation to this pivotal role.

Mr Brooke said that the Board of Directors would launch a global recruitment exercise to fill the position.

“Robbie has dedicated 20 years of his career to the development of rugby in Hong Kong and has been a highly competent and well-respected CEO since taking up his current role in 2017,” said Mr Brooke.

“We are of course disappointed that Robbie has decided to step down, but we respect his decision and wish him all the very best in the future.

“Robbie has always been a passionate advocate for grassroots development and was instrumental in the setting up of our Community Foundation, now Rugby for Good, which has been a leader in the sport-for-good sector in Hong Kong.

“I know that Robbie plans to stay in Hong Kong for the long term, and I am certain he will continue to contribute to the rugby community of which he has been such an integral and important part for so many years.”

Mr Brooke said that Robbie and the HKCR team remained fully focused upon a range of ongoing initiatives, including delivery of both a successful domestic season as well as the 2024 Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, an event that Robbie has been closely involved with, and nurtured, for over 20 years.

Robbie joined the then HKRFU as Community Rugby Manager in 2003. Over the past two decades he has worked across most areas of the organisation, including a period overseeing the Sevens, before being appointed CEO in 2017.

In relation to his decision, Robbie said that “after 20 years in one organisation it was time to explore other opportunities in Hong Kong.”

“I have thought about this for some time and believe that it is time to hand over the reins to a new CEO who may bring in new ideas and approaches for the move to Kai Tak Sports Park and the development of rugby in Hong Kong, including our famous Hong Kong Sevens,” said Robbie.

“It has been an honour and privilege to have been able to work in a sport I love and with people who are committed and passionate about sport and its potential as a driving force for good in society.

“While we have endured some tough times in recent years because of COVID, I can honestly say that I could not have asked for a more fulfilling and enjoyable career over the past 20 years. I will forever be thankful that I have been able to combine my love of rugby with earning a living while also having a lot of fun along the way.”