Damian Hopley

CEO

A graduate of St Andrews and Cambridge University, Damian played for Wasps and England but was forced to retire from professional rugby in 1998 after a series of knee operations. The lack of support available to professional players led Damian to found the RPA later that same year.

He is the driving force behind the RPA and his influence ensures that players' rights are protected and represented at all levels within the sport. Damian has been the principal negotiator for both the England and British & Irish Lions players' contracts since 2001. He is currently Chairman of the International Rugby Players' Association (IRPA).