It’s a historical moment for the proud daughter of the villages of Vaie’e Safata and Lotoso’a Saleimoa, who is the first ever Samoan and Pasifika female CEO of a New Zealand Rugby (NZR) Provincial Union.
North Otago Rugby Football Union (NORFU) are proud to announce the appointment of Irish rugby legend Sene Naoupu (née Taiti-Fanene) as their new CEO.
The appointment marks a historic day for not only the game of rugby but for Naoupu.
Her CV demonstrates her achievements and experiences owning her own business, leading equality campaigns and strategic projects for governing bodies, player bodies, commercial rights holders and healthcare services.
In addition to her stand-out skills Naoupu’s international rugby playing career saw her earn 48 caps for Ireland since making her debut in 2015.
After moving to Ireland in 2009, Naoupu said she is looking forward to returning home to Aotearoa and excited by the opportunity.
“I’m honoured to be appointed CEO of my home Provincial Union. This role holds deep, personal significance as I return to where my rugby journey began after 15 years abroad,” Naoupu said.
“I’m grateful for the international opportunities to contribute to the game at every level, globally, nationally and regionally and have gained insights and experiences from world-class people, organisations, competitions and teams.
“Now it’s a privilege to help future-proof rugby in my home province. I look forward to the opportunity to serve my community and family, especially my mother who needs me nearby, and build on the strong legacy that was led by Colin Jackson the past 20 years.
Outgoing NORFU CEO Colin Jackson showed his support for Naoupu and reflected on his time in the role.
“I care passionately about the future of North Otago rugby and when I was told about Sene’s appointment, I could not have thought of a better person” Jackson said
“Sene has all the credentials to be a smart and innovative leader and she brings so much international rugby knowledge. I wish her all the very best and she has my unconditional support.”
Naoupu will officially step into the role next month and be welcomed at a mihi whakatau (welcome) event held by the Union and Oamaru Pacific Island Trust on November 26.
BIO
Sene Naoupu is a former international rugby player for Ireland who made her debut in 2015. The following year in 2016, Naoupu was listed by the Irish Times as one of the 30 most influential women in Ireland. She went on to earn 48 caps for the 15s side before retiring in 2022.
Away from the field, Naoupu has led global and national strategies for sports governing bodies, player bodies, commercial rights holders and healthcare services. She’s also a record-breaking broadcaster across Rugby World Cup, Olympics, Guinness Six Nations and Sky Super Rugby Aupiki. Naoupu continues to champion equality in sport and business, promoting the visibility of gender inclusiveness and diversity.
