David Humphreys to take over as Gloucester DoR

Gloucester confirmed David Humphreys is to become the club’s new Director of Rugby.
The 42-year-old, who won 72 caps for Ireland, will take over from Nigel Davies who has been sacked after two poor seasons at Kingsholm.
Humphreys retired from rugby back in 2008 taking on the role of Director of Rugby at Ulster.
He will start his new role shortly, at a date to be mutually agreed between Gloucester and Ulster.
Gloucester CEO Stephen Vaughan said: “This appointment is so key for the long term success of the club, and I’m absolutely thrilled that David is joining Gloucester Rugby.
“We have received applications from all over the world and Ryan Walkinshaw and myself spoke to a large number of high calibre individuals. However, once David entered the frame and we discussed our vision and what he could bring to the project, we knew we had our man.
“His background as an international player in the professional era, and subsequent experiences as Director of Rugby mean that he has the ideal skill set for the role.
“With the signings that we have made ahead of next season, allied to the retention work we carried out and the continuing investment in ensuring we have a high performance environment, the playing department looks in great shape. And we now have the ideal person in David to shape this and drive us forward.”
Chairman Ryan Walkinshaw added: “It was absolutely crucial that we made the right appointment. It’s an exciting new era for Gloucester Rugby and I’m delighted that David will be part of it.
“Having interviewed a number of candidates with Stephen, David was very impressive and without doubt the calibre of individual the Club needs. Gloucester Rugby commissioned a piece of research on the most effective models for success, and felt that moving away from our previous model of a head coach with DOR responsibilities was important going forward.
“We believe having David in place with a more strategic skill set will get the best out of our playing department going forward.
“Gloucester Rugby is in great shape. The business has just made a profit for the fourth year in succession, World Cup Rugby will be here in 15 months and the years ahead promise to be memorable ones for everybody associated with the club. I’ve never been more excited about the club.”