Conrad Smith joins NZ Rugby in high-performance role

World Cup-winning All Black Conrad Smith has returned to New Zealand Rugby (NZR) in a role with the high-performance team.

Smith, a veteran of the legendary 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cup campaigns, has been appointed former as head of men’s high performance.

In a statement NZR said: “The appointment reinforces NZR’s commitment to a world-leading high-performance system that delivers sustained success through the development of exceptional players, coaches, match officials and support staff.”

Smith will join NZR in early September and report to director of high performance Don Tricker. His role covers the men’s high-performance programme across the New Zealand game, including working closely with Super Rugby clubs and Provincial Unions.

Smith said the opportunity to contribute to the future of New Zealand rugby was one he was eager to take on.

“Rugby has given me so much throughout my life, and I’m looking forward to giving back.

“It’s an exciting time for New Zealand Rugby, with outstanding people joining the organisation in the high performance space. To work alongside Don Tricker, Mike Collins and so many talented people across the game is something I am genuinely excited by.

“I look forward to developing systems where players, coaches, referees and support staff can all thrive. Sustainable success doesn’t happen by accident. It is built over time through strong relationships, clear systems, quality decision-making and a shared commitment to continuous improvement.

“This role is about young boys and girls coming through community rugby, through our age-grade teams and being the best in the world in our national teams. That’s what inspires me.”

Tricker said: “Conrad brings an exceptional combination of lived experience, intellect and credibility. We are delighted to have recruited someone of Conrad’s standing and experience.

“He has seen all parts of the New Zealand rugby system through his own development and understands what excellence looks like at the highest level.

“This role is about strengthening the entire men’s high performance pathway, from talent identification and development through to our national teams. Ultimately, we are developing people that our national teams want to pick and Conrad’s ability to take people with him makes him exceptionally well placed to lead this work.”