The New Zealand Rugby Players Association (RPA) has appointed Mark Troughear as its new Chair, following the organisations December Board meeting. Troughear assumes the role previously held by David Kirk, who resigned to take up the Chair position at New Zealand Rugby (NZR) in December 2024. Kirk had served with distinction as RPA Chair since its inception in 1999.
Troughear brings extensive leadership experience and commercial acumen to the RPA Board. As the CEO of Freightways Group, a position he has held since 2018 he has overseen substantial organisational growth, including doubling the company’s revenue and market captilisation, securing an ASX listing, increasing the average contractor remuneration by 40%, and guiding Freightways through COVID-19, chronic labour shortages, and a recession.
Alongside his corporate leadership, Troughear has maintained a lifelong and hands-on involvement in rugby. He continues to play for the Marist Over Thirties and contributes to the community game as an Assistant Coach of the Pakuranga Rugby Club U21s, an Associate Referee for Auckland Rugby, and a Trustee for the Marist Rugby Club Trust. His passion for the game, and appreciation for rugby’s unique role in New Zealand’s sporting culture will be valuable assets in his new position.
On his appointment, Troughear said he was excited to contribute to the ongoing work of the RPA.
“Having been involved in rugby for over 50 years doing just about every role you can do in amateur rugby - from ballboy to coach - I’m excited about the opportunity to be involved with the team at RPA and offering my commercial experience to help the development of our players and the game.”
RPA Chief Executive Officer Rob Nichol said Troughear’s extensive leadership and commercial experience alongside his understanding of rugby and its role within New Zealand made him an excellent choice.
“Mark has achieved significant success governing and managing complex commercial organisations. This was a specific skillset we were seeking. His culture first approach, combined with his genuine, approachable, and empathetic engagement, will translate seamlessly and add value to the RPA's ongoing work.”
Nichol also acknowledged outgoing Chair David Kirk for his outstanding service and contribution to the RPA over more than two decades.
“On behalf of the RPA, I would like to say thank you to David. His dedication, passion, and steady guidance have supported us since our inception in 1999. David’s intelligence, principled approach and calm demeanor alongside his ability to empower and grow our people has been invaluable to the RPA and those of us fortunate enough to work alongside him over the years. He has championed numerous RPA initiatives that positively impact our people and the game and led us through some extraordinary times. David has left an incredible legacy at the RPA, and we will be forever grateful for his contribution to our legacy.”
Mark Troughear Bio:
Mark Troughear was appointed CEO of Freightways’ in 2018, having joined the company in 1996. A University of Waikato graduate, he began his career in sales and marketing at New Zealand Couriers before becoming General Manager of Post Haste in 2003. In 2009, he was appointed General Manager for Freightways overseeing the development of the Information Management Division prior to stepping into the CEO role. His experience spans sales management, brand development, managing operational units, mergers and acquisitions, emerging business development, and corporate governance.
RPA Board:
The RPA Board is made up of six player representatives and five Independents, including the RPA's new Chair, Mark Troughear. Player representatives include Sarah Hirini (nee Goss), Will Jordan, Anton Lienert-Brown, Brad Shields, Ruby Tui and Patrick Tuipulotu who provide an abundance of leadership experience. Scott Ireland (Chair of Player Council), Richie McCaw, Tevita Funaki and Tammi Wilson, are joined by Troughear (Chair), as Independents providing diverse expertise across both business and sport.
