The head of the governing body of one of the UK’s most popular sports will share insights and thoughts from his life in business at a special Lancaster University Management School event.

Simon Johnson is Chair of the Rugby Football League (RFL), overseeing the organisation in charge of rugby league in England. He is the guest for the next Lancaster University Entrepreneurs in Residence (EiR) Inspiring Business Fireside Talk, on Wednesday, May 15^th.

During his talk, Simon will explain how Leadership by Consent enhances performance in business, community, and representative roles. He will contrast Leadership by Consent with other forms of leadership and explore how, with both entrepreneurial leadership and representative leadership, core elements of personal values play a crucial role in success.

Lancaster EiR network director Brian Gregory said: “Simon is a seasoned business and charity leader known for his strategic acumen and integrity. He has extensive experience in high-profile organisations – from the FA to ITV, the RFL to the Premier League – and with government collaboration.

“I know this will be a wonderful opportunity to hear from someone who has operate at the top of his sector for such a long time, and who had learned the personal values that contribute to good leadership.”

Simon has been RFL Chair since 2019. He is also a member of the International Rugby League board.

Outside of the game, he runs a consultancy business advising clients in the sport and leisure industries and charitable third sector. Previously, he had a 20-year career that saw him operate at the highest levels of the sports and media industries, working as a lawyer for ITV, and the Premier League. He spent four years as Director of Corporate Affairs at The Football Association, followed by a role as Chief Operating Officer of England’s bid to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

The event will also include the opportunity to network with business leaders, students and academic experts and Entrepreneurs in Residence from Lancaster University Management School.

For more information and to register, visit https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/56163