Richard Hill MBE
England, British Lions, Saracens, World Cup Winner
England Rugby World Cup winner Richard Hill is one of the world’s greatest back row players. This is a reputation he firmly cemented with inspirational performances throughout his international career. Known as the ‘Silent Assassin’ Richard had the ability to perform at a consistently high level for both his club Saracens and for his country, proving himself the ultimate professional.
Hill appeared in every England squad from the U-16 level onwards before making his senior debut in 1997 against Scotland. Within only a few months of his debut and having won only 4 full caps, he became a British Lion, a feat he was to repeat in 2001 and 2005.
By the end of an illustrious professional career Richard had amassed 71 caps for his country. The pinnacle of his career came in 2003 with the defeat of Australia in the World Cup final. For many Hill was the heartbeat of the England team during the modern era, he was the only player never to be dropped during Clive Woodward’s reign and at his peak his name was the first to go down on a world XV team-sheet.
To both the England and Saracens teams Richard showed immense dedication and commitment throughout his career. Shunning lucrative offers elsewhere Hill chose to remain at Saracens for his entire professional career, showing a sense of honour unusual in these times. Post career Richard went on to work at Saracens in business development, community outreach and as Academy Coach and Mentor. He now sits at the heart of the England set up with a seat on the RFU Council, and acts as a consultant to the RFU helping to identify, mentor and develop young players both on and off the field.
As former England coach Brian Ashton said ‘Richard personifies everything that is good about a professional rugby player’.
Topics
Following his retirement due to a continuing knee injury in May 2008, Richard has become a highly sought after for keynote and after dinner speeches and Q & A sessions. With his acute awareness of the direct link between sport and business he can share expertise and in-depth knowledge on the following areas:
• Leadership – identifying, mentoring and developing new talent
• Team dynamics and composition – strength in diversity
• Motivation, determination and overcoming setbacks – overcoming injury and criticism, the importance of loving what you do
• Going from good to great, change management, maintaining peak performance and working with the dynamics of your team – the story of the Rugby World Cup 2003 squad
Whatever the occasion, whoever the audience, Richard’s honest approach, humorous stories, first-hand experiences and advice is not just for the rugby fan. They are ideal for those who wish to learn about being the best, fulfilling potential and inspiring those around them
Testimonials
“I just wanted to let you know how grateful we were to have Richard at our event yesterday. He was a very entertaining speaker and kept everybody amused. It was great that he stayed to have lunch and chat with our guests.”
Aviva
“Richard Hill spoke to our Annual Review meeting just after the World Cup victory. He held the attention of the room from beginning to end. He managed to combine inspiration with humility and gave us some great tips for successful teamwork. A true leader.”
The Pentland Group
“Richard Hill was brilliant. We will definitely look to use him again for future events”
QBE
“Richard made a surprise guest appearance at the Growing Business Awards which we host each year at the Hilton Hotel on Park Lane. What a professional in every sense. It is easy to see why Richard is so popular. He was on time, nothing was too much trouble, despite the fact that we kept him waiting in reception to preserve the surprise element.”
Caspian Publishing