Mason Alexander places CEO of Rugby Players Ireland, Simon Keogh
Default Author • October 10, 2017

​Mason Alexander were delighted to work with and successfully place the CEO of Rugby Players Ireland, Simon Keogh.


Earlier this year Mason Alexander were tasked with recruiting the new CEO of Rugby Players Ireland (formerly Irish Rugby Union Players Association). Working exclusively with Rugby Player’s Ireland, the search was on to find the person equipped to step into the shoes of former boss Omar Hassanein.


Candidates met with a board consisting of Patrick Manley (CEO Zurich), Andrew Trimble, Peter O’Mahony, Jonny Sexton, Ronan Loughney, Shane Jennings (past player representative) Peter McKenna (McKenna Durcan Solicitors) and John Treacy (Treacy Consultancy). After a rigorous recruitment process, it was announced that Keogh was to fill the position.


Keogh has enjoyed a long and exciting rugby career. He previously spent over 10 years with Leinster and Harlequins, and was part of the winning Heineken Cup team with Leinster in 2009. Throughout this time, he was actively involved in the Rugby Players Associates and Rugby Players Ireland (formerly IRUPA) and was one of the original signatories in the establishment of the Irish Players’ Association in 2001.


Rugby Players Ireland chairman spoke of the appointment:


“I am delighted to announce Simon’s appointment as CEO of Rugby Players Ireland. Given his extensive work with the association over the recent years, in addition to his own playing experience.”


“We are happy that Simon will ensure that the voice of professional rugby players in Ireland remains at the forefront of the game in this country”.


Speaking of his appointment Keogh said:


“I am thrilled to be working with our members, the Board, the IRFU and our partners to develop the players’ association further”.


“Rugby Players Ireland is uniquely placed to become a world leader in player welfare and representation. Working with the players, we as an association will strive to make a difference and create an environment that is second to none in the world of rugby.”




Mason Alexander is delighted to launch Ireland’s first Sports Recruitment desk. We are fusing our wealth of experience in recruitment with our strong sports network to lead the way in sports recruitment. We work with federations, sports teams and rights holders to supply the best global talent. We believe in the power of transitioning elite athletes into the workplace. We will leverage our extensive network to help place former elite athletes into thriving companies as well as supporting and advising them on their career transition. To get in touch please email info@masonalexandersports.ie.

2025 Investment & Executive Hiring Trends in London
By Dylan Philpott July 30, 2025
Explore 2025 hiring trends in London’s investment and executive search market, including private credit, VC, corporate development, and C-suite recruitment.
Irish Technology Market Overview – H1 2025
By Sarah Dolan July 28, 2025
Explore Ireland’s tech hiring trends in our H1 2025 review & H2 outlook. Download key insights, challenges, and employer recommendations today.
Building Cyber Teams in Ireland: Navigating NIS2 and Talent Shortages
By Sarah Dolan July 23, 2025
Ireland missed the NIS2 deadline. Learn what this means for your business, how to build internal cyber teams, and avoid a costly talent scramble in 2025.
Follow us on Instagram