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020 8914 8966
On behalf of all the staff at Gilead, we would like to thank you for such an inspiring webinar today. The messages we have received have been overwhelming. We had just over 200 on the call (some were watching from a large screen in our meeting room). Thank you so much for your time and I wish you all the best in the future.
Donna, HR Business Partner, Gilead
Nigel Owens – Revered LGBT Advocate who Featured on The 2017 Pinc List
Nigel Owens MBE is one of the most respected referees in Rugby Union history, holding the world record for the most matches officiated. Known for his sharp decision-making, composure under pressure and fair leadership, he has presided over some of the sport’s biggest competitions. Beyond rugby, Nigel is admired for his courage in becoming one of the first figures in the game to come out as openly gay, paving the way for greater inclusion in sport. Today, he is a sought-after speaker, inspiring audiences with his insights on leadership, resilience, equality and mental health.
Credentials and Impact
Nigel began refereeing in 1987 and went on to become one of only a handful of full-time professional referees in the Welsh Rugby Union. Over his distinguished career, he officiated at the highest levels of the game, from the International Rugby Board World Sevens Series to domestic showcase events like Judgement Day, where in 2017 he marked his 150th professional appearance. In 2015, his excellence was recognised with the World Rugby Referee Award, confirming his place among the sport’s elite officials.
Alongside his refereeing career, Nigel has dedicated himself to advocacy and public service. He publicly came out in 2007, becoming one of the first prominent figures in men’s rugby to do so, and has since become a leading voice for LGBT+ inclusion in sport. His honesty about challenges with bullying, bulimia and mental health has brought much-needed visibility to issues often left unspoken in professional sport. Appointed MBE in 2016 for services to rugby, he has also been recognised with multiple awards, including Stonewall’s Gay Sports Personality titles. Beyond the pitch, Nigel is active in farming, charitable work and broadcasting, hosting the Welsh TV show ‘A Minute to Go’ and speaking regularly on equality, diversity and inclusion.
Publications and Media
Why Book Nigel?
Audiences book Nigel for his unique ability to combine lessons from elite sport with deeply personal insights on resilience and authenticity. As the world record holder for the most rugby matches refereed, he brings unparalleled expertise in decision-making, communication and leading under pressure. Beyond the pitch, his openness about mental health, bullying and personal challenges has made him a powerful advocate for equality and inclusion. Recognised with honours such as Stonewall’s Gay Sports Personality of the Decade, he has become an influential role model across sport and society.
More recently, Nigel has also been celebrated for his work in farming, being named Farming Champion of the Year in 2024. His candid, humorous and heartfelt speaking style resonates with diverse audiences, leaving them inspired to embrace authenticity, overcome challenges and create inclusive environments in every walk of life.
