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Jonathan Davies (OBE)

Ex-professional Rugby Player, Broadcaster and Businessman

London, UK

Jonathan Davies

Daversa Partners

Christopher de Mattos

RAB Capital Limited

Jonathan’s Biography

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Jonathan Davies is widely considered as one of the greatest players in Welsh rugby history. During his distinguished career, he played for several top clubs, demonstrating his versatility when converting from rugby union to rugby league and proving equally capable in both codes.

Alongside his considerable achievements at club level, Jonathan excelled internationally and served as captain for both Wales and Great Britain, in rugby union and league respectively.

Since the end of his playing career, Jonathan has gone on to establish himself as a respected broadcaster, comfortably transitioning to a life beyond the field. Offering astute analysis and expert insight, he makes frequent appearances as a Rugby Commentator during the BBC’s coverage.

Not just a regular personality on television, Jonathan is also a leading businessman with a knack for business development. Committed and driven, his successful decades-long career demonstrates his place as a savvy business professional. Further to leading Business Development at Smart Solutions, he also provides valuable consultation to Arthur... Jonathan Davies is widely considered as one of the greatest players in Welsh rugby history. During his distinguished career, he played for several top clubs, demonstrating his versatility when converting from rugby union to rugby league and proving equally capable in both codes.

Alongside his considerable achievements at club level, Jonathan excelled internationally and served as captain for both Wales and Great Britain, in rugby union and league respectively.

Since the end of his playing career, Jonathan has gone on to establish himself as a respected broadcaster, comfortably transitioning to a life beyond the field. Offering astute analysis and expert insight, he makes frequent appearances as a Rugby Commentator during the BBC’s coverage.

Not just a regular personality on television, Jonathan is also a leading businessman with a knack for business development. Committed and driven, his successful decades-long career demonstrates his place as a savvy business professional. Further to leading Business Development at Smart Solutions, he also provides valuable consultation to Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. on business growth matters through his work at Andrew Scott.

Jonathan is a passionate, people-oriented leader with a determined yet flexible approach. Not only does he positively contribute to all facets of business, he is also an award-winning after-dinner speaker, providing inspiring motivational talks covering the key qualities of leadership.

Jonathan is highly experienced in ambassadorial and non-executive roles that he has successfully leveraged to increase awareness for top brands and companies such as HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, British Telecom, Guinness and Heineken.

Community-minded and committed to paying it forward, Jonathan is the President of Fundraising at Velindre Cancer Centre where he has helped raise more than £30 million. He was awarded an OBE for his outstanding services to charity in 2015. moreless

Jonathan’s Newsfeed

South Wales Life

Jonathan Announced as Honorary Founding Member of New & Exclusive Festival Group

Jonathan Davies has been announced as Honorary Founding Member of a new Welsh family festival, In It Together, launched by Escape Records and due to be held over the Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend in June.

The Telegraph

Jonathan Davies exclusive: Move Wales' Six Nations home games to England for Welsh rugby to survive

Former Wales rugby international and BBC analyst, Jonathan Davies, has added his voice of support to the suggestion that Wales play their Six Nations home games in England rather than face the prospect of playing in empty stadiums.

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Jonathan’s Social Media

Jonathan’s Background

Great Days Golf

Non-Executive Director

Feb 2021 - Present

Swansea, UK

Great Days Golf offers unique and bespoke events, held at clubs and societies throughout the UK, Europe and Worldwide. Boasting an impressive celebrity network, the company promotes exclusive golfing offers, overseen by its three founding members, who combine their business acumen with a genuine passion for the game of golf.

Smart Solutions Recruitment Ltd

Business Development and Sales Consultant

Sep 2020 - Present

Swansea, UK

Smart Solutions Recruitment is a Pan European recruitment business that utilises innovative in-house software in order to provide large scale, bespoke workforce solutions for industries.

ACT Training

Skills Ambassador

Jan 2018 - Present

Cardiff, UK

ACT provides learning programmes and opportunities in the shape of traineeships, apprenticeships and higher apprenticeships across many sectors. Most of the training provided has funding in place. In his role as Skills Ambassador, Jonathan assists people in gaining opportunities within training and employment.

BBC Sport

Rugby Union and Rugby League Commentator

Jan 2007 - Present

London, UK

Providing national sports coverage for BBC television, BBC Sport was founded in 1988 and holds the broadcasting rights for several sports. Jonathan Davies has served as a rugby commentator for the brand for over a decade, sharing his infinite wisdom obtained throughout a glittering career.

Andrew Scott Ltd

Director for Stadia

Jan 2017 - Present

Port Talbot, UK

Andrew Scott Ltd is one of the UK's long-standing independent construction companies. The company is a leading name in the building, civil engineering and construction markets that serves both public and private sector customers. Jonathan utilises his powerful network within sport and media, generating new business leads and maximising marketing potential.

Champions Speakers

Guest Speaker

Loughborough, UK

Champions Speakers is a leading speaking bureau. Operating in 66 countries worldwide, the company offer a plethora of fascinating guest speakers, hailing from all walks of life including sport, business, technology, politics and the military. Jonathan offers inspirational and engaging after-dinner talks on behalf of the service.

MBN Promotions

After Dinner Speaker

London, UK

MBN Promotions function at countless events, held in the most spectacular of locations. Able to provide the biggest of names from a collection of backgrounds, the agency aims to create memorable experiences, whilst also raising funds for worthy causes in a fun environment. Jonathan provides inspirational and motivational talks, covering key lessons learned throughout a glittering sporting career.

Avanti Media Limited

Presenter of 'Jonathan'

Jan 2006 - Present

Cardiff, UK

Avanti Media is a Welsh Production Company and was founded by Emyr Afan and Mair Davies in 1997. The company produces entertainment programming and landmark events. Jonathan hosted a Welsh language chat show alongside Welsh rugby referee, Nigel Owens, and sports presenter/reporter, Sarra Elgan.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

Business Development Consultant

Cardiff, UK

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co is a global insurance, risk management and consulting partner.

North Wales Crusaders

President

Wrexham, UK

Founded initially in 2005 as Celtic Crusaders, North Wales Crusaders were a rugby league side. The club moved from Bridgend to Wrexham and was awarded a Super League licence in 2009.

Wales National Rugby Union Team

Professional Rugby Player

1985 - 1997

Cardiff, UK

The Wales National Rugby Union Team represents the Wales men's international team in union code. Jonathan proudly served as captain, undoubtedly one of the highest honours in professional sport.

North Queensland Cowboys

Professional Rugby Player

1995 - 1995

Townsville, AU

The North Queensland Cowboys are an Australian professional rugby league football club based in Townsville, North Queensland. Established in 1995, they reached three major finals: 2005, 2015 and 2017.

Warrington Wolves

Professional Rugby Player

1993 - 1995

Warrington, UK

Warrington Wolves are a rugby league club that play in the Super League. The club is based in Warrington and is nicknamed ‘The Wire’ which makes reference to the wire-drawing industry, the region's largest export.

Great Britain National Rugby League Team

Professional Rugby Player

1989 - 1994

Nicknamed The Lions, The Great Britain National Rugby League Team represents Great Britain in the sport. They are administered by the Rugby Football League (RFL). Converting from union to league did not halt Davies, and he was entrusted to operate in the role of captain, truly emphasising his mastery of both codes.

Widnes Vikings

Professional Rugby Player

1989 - 1993

Widnes, UK

The Widnes Vikings are an English professional rugby league club competing in the Betfred Championship. They play their home matches at the Halton Stadium and they are one of the original twenty-two clubs from the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

Professional Rugby Player

1991 - 1991

Canterbury, AU

The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are an Australian professional rugby league football club.

Llanelli RFC

Professional Rugby Player

1988 - 1989

Llanelli, UK

Llanelli Rugby Football Club is a well-known Welsh rugby union club. The team colours are red and white. The team nickname is 'Sosban Fach' relating to a Welsh song meaning 'Little Saucepan' and is often performed by the crowd during matches.

Neath RFC

Professional Rugby Player

1982 - 1988

Neath, UK

Neath RFC is a Welsh rugby union club that participates in matches under the Welsh Premier Division. Known as the oldest club in Wales, it was established in 1871 and is based in The Gnoll, Neath.

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Jonathan’s Gallery

Ex Wales rugby player, Jonathan Davies, with MD of Andrew Scott Ltd, Mark Bowen, at Parc y Scarlets stadium in Wales.

Jonathan Davies, pictured in his role as a highly respected rugby commentator.

Jonathan Davies stood proudly with his OBE, awarded in 2015 for his charitable endeavours.

Jonathan Davies, BBC rugby pundit, standing on the field.

Jonathan Davies embarks upon a lung-busting run during his playing days.

Jonathan Davies proudly poses with his MBN Sporting Speaker of the Year Award alongside Australian rugby legend George Gregan.

Jonathan Davies is honoured with the KPMG RPA Hall of Fame Induction Award

Jonathan Davies participates in the Celebrity Cup charity fundraiser golf tournament at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, Gwent

Jonathan Davies pictured at Ffos Las racecourse after having a grandstand dedicated to him

Ex Wales rugby player, Jonathan Davies, with MD of Andrew Scott Ltd, Mark Bowen, at Parc y Scarlets stadium in Wales.

Jonathan Davies, pictured in his role as a highly respected rugby commentator.

Jonathan Davies stood proudly with his OBE, awarded in 2015 for his charitable endeavours.

Jonathan Davies, BBC rugby pundit, standing on the field.

Jonathan Davies embarks upon a lung-busting run during his playing days.

Jonathan Davies proudly poses with his MBN Sporting Speaker of the Year Award alongside Australian rugby legend George Gregan.

Jonathan Davies is honoured with the KPMG RPA Hall of Fame Induction Award

Jonathan Davies participates in the Celebrity Cup charity fundraiser golf tournament at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, Gwent

Jonathan Davies pictured at Ffos Las racecourse after having a grandstand dedicated to him

Other Business Interests

In It Together Festival

Honorary Founding Member

Feb 2022 - Present

In It Together Festival is a brand new Welsh family event launched by Escape Records and due to take place over the Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend in June 2022

Philanthropy

Velindre Cancer Centre

President of Fundraising

Jan 2008 - Present

Cardiff, UK

The Velindre Cancer Centre provides specialist cancer care services to patients throughout South East Wales. Jonathan leads the fundraising team after losing both his wife and father to cancer. Over a decade, he has helped to raise over £34 million since coming on board.

Wooden Spoon Society

Supporter

Fleet, UK

Wooden Spoon is a children's charity supported by the game of rugby that funds projects in support of disadvantaged and disabled children in the UK and Ireland. Jonathan ran the 2006 Great North Run in Wooden Spoon colours, also opening the Wooden Spoon project at Noah's Ark Children's Hospital.

Media

LISTEN: Dual-code international Jonathan Davies on the Golden Point Podcast

Podcast

Jul 2021

Jonathan contributes to the Golden Point Podcast, sharing the full story of his rugby league career.

Micron Video Productions

The Jonathan Davies Story

Jan 1991

London, UK

Feature length documentary detailing the fascinating career of rugby legend Jonathan Davies. With captivating insights from Davies and those closest to him, as well as explosive footage collated throughout his mastery of both union and league, the story told is crucial viewing for any sports fan.

Publications

Jonathan Davies: Code Breaker

Co-Author

Oct 1996

London, UK

The book titled, ‘Jonathan Davies: Codebreaker’, co-authored by Jonathan and Peter Corrigan, is an account of Jonathan’s triumphant professional rugby career and tells the story of his successful journey of playing for some of the UK’s leading union and league clubs.

Awards & Endorsements

New Year Honours

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Jan 2015

London, UK

Jonathan was appointed as Officer of the Order of the British Empire in recognition of his contribution to voluntary and charitable services. He has raised a staggering £34 million in his role as president of Cardiff's Velindre Cancer Centre.

New Year Honours

Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Jan 1996

London, UK

Jonathan was awarded an MBE in 1996 for services to rugby, during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Man of Steel Awards

Winner

Oct 1994

Salford, UK

The Man of Steel Award is presented annually to the rugby league player of the season. The honour is granted at an end-of-season awards dinners and the voting process is undertaken by a variety of decorated former players and coaches. Jonathan was named Man of Steel after a sterling 1993/4 season as a member of the Warrington Wolves.

World Rugby Player of the Year

Winner

Nov 1988

Rugby, UK

World Rugby Player of the Year is handed out annually by World Rugby at the World Rugby Awards. It was originally referred to as the IRB World Rugby Player of the Year award, changing in 2014 as the International Rugby Board became World Rugby. The award was first presented in London and fly-half, is the most successful position with seven wins.

MBN Promotions

Sporting Speaker of the Year

Nov 2018

London, UK

Davies was awarded the honour of Sporting Speaker of the Year after numerous captivating performances at a variety of different events.

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Commercial Partners

Heineken

Brand Ambassador

2003 - 2005

Heineken is a Dutch beer brewing company founded in 1864 in Amsterdam. The company operates more than 165 breweries worldwide.

British Telecom

Brand Ambassador

1999 - 2001

British Telecommunications (BT) is a world-leading communications services company providing customers with fixed-line and networked IT services, broadband, mobile and TV products/services. BT operates in more than 180 countries worldwide.

HSBC

Brand Ambassador

1997 - 2001

London, UK

HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking & financial services organizations, serving approximately 38 million customers, with in the region of 3,900 offices globally.

Lloyds Banking Group

Brand Ambassador

1997 - 1999

London, UK

Lloyds Banking Group is a major financial services group in the UK with their focus on retail and commercial financial services.

Guinness

Brand Ambassador

1997 - 1999

Guinness originated in Dublin, Ireland in 1759. Guinness is brewed in nearly 50 countries and is available in over 120, being one of the most successful beer brands worldwide.

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