Ashok Ahir is a former BBC journalist and director of comms at the Wales Office

The Welsh Rugby Union has appointed Ashok Ahir to the newly created role of director of corporate affairs.

The former director of communications for the Wales Office and deputy director of Communications with the UK Cabinet Office started his media career as a BBC News and BBC Cymru Wales journalist, before spending more than a decade leading the BBC’s politics team in Cardiff.

For the past four years he has been director of communications and engagement at the qualifications regulator, Qualifications Wales.

In his new role he will help shape the WRU’s public voice – supporting engagement with fans, partners, communities, media and wider public life.

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Chief executive of the WRU Abi Tierney, said: “Ashok brings extensive communications and media expertise and a strong understanding of the public and political landscape in Wales and across the UK. We are delighted to welcome him to the WRU at such an important time for the organisation.

“The cultural significance of rugby to the nation cannot be understated and Ashok’s remit will be to enhance and develop our strategic approach, by highlighting and emphasising this fundamental strength of, and central focus for, the WRU.”

Mr Ahir, who lives in Penarth said: “I am both excited and honoured to be joining the WRU in this role.

“Welsh rugby holds a unique place in the life of the nation, and I will work with colleagues across the organisation and the wider game to support the aims and ambitions of our One Wales strategy, helping to tell the story of the game in Wales with clarity, confidence and authenticity.”

Mr Ashir is also the current president of the National Library of Wales. For many years he chaired the National Eisteddfod of Wales.