Kirsti Jane, who leads the US-based luxury asset agency behind Scarlets’ strategic partnership, published a scathing critique of Tierney’s leadership on LinkedIn, describing Welsh rugby as “rotting” and accusing the WRU of “years-long failure” and a lack of vision.
Her comments, made prior to any public confirmation of HOL’s involvement with Scarlets, now read as a signal of intent — laying out the frustrations and ambitions that underpin the group’s move into Welsh rugby.
“No guts, no direction”
In the post, Kirsti Jane accused the WRU of failing to address the root causes of decline:
“Welsh rugby is in crisis. Not a new one. Not a one-off. Years-long cycle of failure, masked by PR spins and empty gestures. The WRU gave notice to Ospreys and Scarlets months ago. Yet here we are with no direction. No guts.”
She criticised Tierney’s reliance on consultants and questioned the WRU’s ability to lead meaningful reform:
“A CEO who can’t seem to make a single executive decision without cutting another cheque to consultants who tell her what she should already know. That’s not leadership or vision. That’s survival mode.”
The post also took aim at the WRU’s internal culture, referencing past governance failures and the union’s handling of recent crises:
“Accountants in growth roles. Accountants in creative roles. Because apparently, all the talent you ever need is just down the corridor.”
WRU prepares to reveal preferred restructure
Tierney has defended the WRU’s approach, saying the union will publish its preferred model in the coming weeks before launching a six-week consultation with clubs, coaches, politicians and supporters. A final decision is expected in October.
“We want to consult on an option rather than just go out there with everybody having different views,” Tierney told the BBC. “We’re paid to make decisions, so it’s important we take the opportunity of a leadership position on this.”
She insisted the WRU is open to challenge and that no final decision has been made:
“We’ve come up with what we think will work, based on a huge amount of feedback and input, but I’m under no illusion we’ve got it all right.”
The WRU says it will not name which clubs may be cut, only the number and principles behind the restructure. If clubs cannot agree to merge voluntarily, the union may go out to tender for regional licences.
“We’ll be the wolf blowing your house down”
Kirsti Jane’s post concluded with a stark warning:
“So WRU, if you’re ever ready for real change… knock on our door. And if you don’t? We’ll be the wolf blowing your house down.”
The remarks have sparked debate across Welsh rugby, with some fans praising her candour and others questioning the tone. Scarlets have not commented publicly on the post, but sources close to the club say HOL remains fully committed to the investment deal and is working with the Board to finalise documentation.
The WRU has confirmed it will conduct its own due diligence once formal paperwork is submitted.
A wider reckoning
The WRU’s leadership has faced mounting scrutiny in recent months. An independent review last year found the organisation to be “unforgiving, even vindictive,” with a toxic workplace culture and serious governance failings. Tierney, appointed in the wake of those findings, has pledged to implement all 36 recommendations and rebuild trust.
But critics say progress has been slow, and the national team’s record-breaking losing streak — 18 consecutive defeats before a win over Japan — has only intensified pressure.
Scarlets and Ospreys continue to push for clarity, with both clubs warning that uncertainty is damaging the game. Ospreys have secured planning permission to redevelop Swansea’s historic St Helen’s ground, while Scarlets have announced their partnership with HOL as a strategic lifeline.
Whether the WRU’s “optimal solution” will satisfy stakeholders — or deepen the divide — remains to be seen.
Let common sense prevail