Swansea University has awarded an honorary degree to Brian Rhys Davies OBE, CEO of Sport Wales, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to sport and his continued support for innovation in the region.
A graduate of Swansea University’s School of Management, Brian’s passion for sport was evident during his student days at Swansea. He played rugby for the University team, captained the rugby club, and served on the Athletic Union management committee. His leadership and commitment to sport during this time set the stage for an exceptional career.
Appointed CEO of Sport Wales in February 2023, Brian oversees the strategic and operational activities of the Welsh Government-sponsored public body, working alongside Chair Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and the Board. His role builds on more than 25 years of experience in sports management, policymaking, and professional sport.
Brian’s distinguished rugby career includes playing for Saracens RFC from 1990 to 1997, captaining the team from 1992 to 1996. Off the pitch, he has held numerous influential roles, including Director of Elite Sport at Sport Wales and key positions with AXA and Ford Motor Co. He also led the establishment of Golf Development Wales, an initiative tied to the successful hosting of the 2010 Ryder Cup in Wales.
In international sport, Brian served as General Team Manager for Team Wales at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi before being appointed Chef de Mission for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. His exceptional service to sport was recognised with an OBE in November 2016.
Brian’s ongoing connection to Swansea University is reflected in his enthusiastic support for the £132m Swansea Bay City Deal Campuses project. Through this initiative, the University and its partners aim to drive innovation and business growth in fields such as medical and sports technology, reinforcing the region's position as a hub for cutting-edge development.
As a leader in sport and a dedicated advocate for its transformative power, Brian Davies exemplifies the values of dedication, excellence, and collaboration. His contributions to sport in Wales, both as a professional athlete and as a policymaker, have made a lasting impact on the sector and beyond.
On receiving his honorary award, Brian Davies said: “I am delighted and humbled to have been recognised by Swansea University in such a special way, especially given how pivotal the University has been in both my personal and professional development. I was so very fortunate to have been a student at such a fantastic University and I am so grateful to everyone involved, past and present, that has played such an important in role my life. The future looks very bright for the University, and I am sure that both myself and Sport Wales will continue to work closely with Swansea, as the sport and higher education sectors face up to the all the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”