The former Llanelli second row has been appointed CEO from 1 January 2013. In his playing days he was capped 17 times for Wales, played for the Barbarians, and had a very successful career playing for Llanelli for some ten seasons, Saracens for three seasons and London Welsh itself for one season.
Off the field of play, Copsey was Managing Director at Harlequins for seven years between 2000 and 2007 before becoming CEO at London Wasps where he was based for two and half years. He then formed a management consultancy company – Copsey Consultancy where he has been central to the success of Rugby Expo and worked with clients such as London Scottish and Saracens.
Club Chairman, Bleddyn Phillips, stated “We are delighted that Tony is joining us as our CEO. Not only does he have an excellent skill set for the job and extensive experience managing top clubs in the Premiership, but he has played the game at the highest levels and indeed (not too many years ago) packed down with the Club’s Head Coach, Lyn Jones, whilst they both played at Llanelli. We look forward to Tony coming on board and helping the Club in its off the field challenges as effectively as the team players and coaching squad have thus far tackled the tests on the pitch.”
Copsey added, “As many people know, London Welsh has a wonderful rugby history and heritage. There is no doubt that London Welsh is currently on a very exciting journey which also means they face probably one of the biggest challenges currently in the sport. It is a real privilege and extremely exciting to be asked to help lead that challenge. I am very much looking forward to working with my old team mate Lyn Jones, the Chairman Bleddyn Phillips together with John Taylor, Steve Lewis and all the players and staff.”
London Welsh has also confirm that John Taylor will continue to play a central role at the Club in his new role as Vice-Chairman and lead ambassador helping and supporting Tony as he settles in.
