The chief executive of Scottish Rugby, Alex Williamson, has been dismissed from his position with immediate effect following an independent investigation. The probe into Williamson's conduct is understood to have stemmed from an inappropriate and undisclosed relationship with a more junior employee.
The board of Scottish Rugby stated that Williamson's conduct had fallen "significantly below the standards we set as an organisation." Chairman John McGuigan confirmed the dismissal, which followed an independent investigation into matters brought to the board's attention earlier this year.
Williamson, 52, had been placed on "extended leave" earlier in the year while the investigation took place, though the reason for his suspension was not initially disclosed. He was appointed to the role in January 2025.
Prior to his tenure at Scottish Rugby, Williamson served as CEO of House of Fraser when the company entered administration in 2018. He also held the chief executive position at Inspiring Learning, a company focused on training and development, which also fell into administration shortly after he joined.
As a qualified accountant, Williamson was tasked with cost reduction at Scottish Rugby, which had experienced losses nearing £10 million. His time with the organization was not without controversy, including a dispute last year with members of the Scotland women's team over contract issues. Several players expressed concerns about job security and financial uncertainty, with captain Rachael Malcolm stating that the situation had been "very disruptive" to the team's preparations.
David White, the current Chief Financial Officer at Scottish Rugby, is expected to serve as interim chief executive while a permanent successor is sought.