NEWS

Major League Rugby Hired New Chief Commercial Officer

Harry Hardy brings over 15 years of experience from D.C. United and Octagon to MLR.

DALLAS (OCT. 18, 2021) – Harry Hardy has begun his new role as Chief Commercial Officer for Major League Rugby (MLR). Hardy joins the organization with a proven track record in building commercial strategies in sports and live events, in addition to helping brands realize their marketing objectives through the power of sports.

During his over 10-year tenure at Octagon, Hardy served as a Vice President, working with notable brands such as Walmart and Procter & Gamble. More recently his three-year role as Executive Vice President of Business Operations at D.C. United included creating the commercial strategy for Audi Field’s event business and primary oversight of sponsorship sales, brand engagement, sports betting and broadcast.

“We are so excited for Harry to join our executive team,” said Major League Rugby Commissioner George Killebrew. “We knew that he would be a perfect fit because of his attention to detail, proven track record in corporate partnerships, and leadership in strategic business development.”

“I cannot wait to get started in this new role,” said Hardy. “The opportunity to join a quickly growing professional sports league and to help expose more North American sports fans and brands to the great sport of rugby is a dream role. I look forward to begin work alongside George and the rest of the Major League Rugby executive team.”

Hardy will work closely with MLR’s current league sponsors, including American Airlines, Geico, Guaranteed Rate, Wintergreen and Paladin, in addition to seeking new commercial opportunities for the League.

“Harry is someone we identified as the ideal candidate for this role a while ago,” said Killebrew. “His experience is impressive and will prove to be a major advantage as the League continues to grow.”

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About Major League Rugby

Major League Rugby is a professional sports league entering its fifth season that represents the highest level of rugby competition in North America. The League evolved from seven teams in 2018 to 13 teams in 2021, featuring 12 from the United States and one from Canada. Matches are televised on CBS Sports Network and Fox Sports 2, among other national and local market platforms. Select matches are available to stream live in North America on The Rugby Network, and all matches are available on The Rugby Network for international fans. MLR prides itself in fostering intense and high-stakes competition, while bringing together a passionate community built on the values of Respect, Inclusivity, and Tradition. For more information about MLR, visit www.MajorLeague.Rugby