A lifelong supporter of rugby, Frank Mitchell spent over 35 years working in the energy sector and brings a wealth of business, commercial and organisational experience to the SRL Board, which is responsible for the operational running of Scottish Rugby.

SP Energy Networks has been a long-term investor in rugby in Scotland specifically in sponsoring Scotland Women and its age-grade sides since 2018. The company became the first bespoke front of shirt sponsor for Scotland Women in the team’s history, also in 2018.

It is also the Official Community Partner of Glasgow Warriors in a relationship that began in 2017. This includes delivering the annual SP Energy Networks Warriors Championship for school children across Scotland.

From a graduate trainee with Scottish Power in the late 1980s through to a 13-year tenure as CEO of SP Energy Networks Frank’s career has encompassed time working internationally at senior levels. He oversaw a workforce of 3,500 at SP Energy Networks and was instrumental widening inclusivity resulting in 2,000 apprentices and graduates being introduced to the business and a focus on female recruitment.

Frank is a Visiting Professor at Strathclyde University Business School and since 2018 has been Chair of Skills Development Scotland.

He replaces Hazel Swankie on the SRL Board as a Scottish Rugby Union appointee following Hazel’s retirement from the SRL Board and election as Scottish Rugby Union Vice-President at its recent Annual General Meeting.

Speaking on his appointment Frank Mitchell said: “I am delighted to be joining the SRL Board.

“I have been a passionate player and supporter of rugby since a young age. I believe the values I learned playing rugby have been instrumental in my career in the energy sector.

“I was proud when CEO of SP Energy Networks we became the first unique front of shirt sponsor for the Scotland Women’s team, allowing us to highlight to a wide audience that the worlds of sport and work were open to all.

“As a member of the Glasgow Warriors Advisory Board, I was so full of pride for the team when they won the 2024 URC Final and the challenges they overcame to achieve this fantastic result.”

Scottish Rugby Limited Chair John McGuigan said: “Frank has had a long connection to rugby in Scotland and been an active supporter of our women’s and age-grade teams, alongside his relationship with Glasgow Warriors.

“He brings extensive business experience following his wide-ranging career in the energy sector and so I am looking forward to him joining the Scottish Rugby Limited Board, starting from our next meeting this week.”