New Connacht Rugby appointee has family roots in Mayo

Connacht Rugby have announced the appointment of Philip Patterson to the role of head of commercial and marketing.

Patterson, who is originally from the UK and has family roots in Co. Mayo, brings over 20 years’ experience in the marketing industry, where he has created and implemented successful marketing strategies for many high-profile global brands, to Connacht Rugby.

He joins Connacht having spent time in the world of marketing consulting, and has also held the role of vice-president marketing at Octagon, where he led the teams delivering marketing strategies and campaigns for brands in partnership with organisations such as UEFA, Roland Garros, The Open and Disney. These promotions reached over 50 countries and achieved significant growth for his clients.

Previous to this, Phillip held positions as senior vice-president marketing at GMR Marketing and vice-president marketing at IMG, as well as positions at Synergy Sponsorship and Britvic Soft Drinks. During this time, he developed and delivered marketing campaigns for brands at worldwide sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup, multiple Olympic Games, Super Bowl, the UEFA European Championships and The Championships, Wimbledon.

Commenting on the appointment, the CEO of Connacht Rugby, Willie Ruane, said: “Following an extensive recruitment process, we are delighted to announce Philip’s appointment to the key role of head of commercial and marketing.

“Philip has a proven track record in delivering internationally renowned marketing campaigns, and he understands the importance of brand and identity to an organisation like Connacht Rugby. He will bring a lot to the role and will help lead our commercial and marketing team into an exciting future for everyone at the club.”

Philip, meanwhile, said he was delighted to be joining the organisation: “I am thrilled to be joining the team at Connacht Rugby. This is a very exciting opportunity for me not just to lead a vibrant commercial and marketing team in the sports industry, but one that also allows me to reconnect with my roots in the west of Ireland.

“There is a huge amount to look forward to in the years ahead for Connacht Rugby, beginning with the brand-new United Rugby Championship in September. There is a culture of excellence right across the organisation and I can’t wait to play my part in that.”