New Zealand Rugby has confirmed the appointment of Conrad Smith as its new Head of Men’s High Performance, with the former All Blacks centre set to take up the role in September.
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Smith enjoyed one of the most decorated careers in All Blacks history, earning 94 Test caps between 2004 and 2015, scoring 26 tries and helping New Zealand lift back-to-back Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015. A qualified lawyer, he has continued to contribute to rugby in a variety of roles since hanging up his boots, with his latest appointment representing another significant chapter in his post-playing career.
The 94-Test legend will report to Director of High Performance Don Tricker, overseeing the men’s high-performance programme across New Zealand rugby while working closely with Super Rugby clubs and Provincial Unions to strengthen the pathway from grassroots through to the All Blacks.
Since retiring from professional rugby, the double Rugby World Cup winner has remained heavily involved in the game. Alongside serving on the Taranaki Rugby Union Board, Smith has volunteered as a community referee and worked as Chief of Rugby Operations for the International Rugby Players Association.
Speaking after his appointment, Smith said he was eager to give back to the game that shaped his career.
“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 believes Smith’s playing experience and leadership qualities make him the ideal candidate to oversee the next generation of New Zealand talent.
“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.”
“After all, in 2026, England have won just one game from six. One from six!”
