The Fiji Rakavi Football Union (FRU) has announced two senior appointments as part of its drive to strengthen governance and operations following its elevation to Tier 1 status.
FRU Chief Executive Officer Koli Sewabu confirmed to Mai TV the appointment of Pita Waqanivalu as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), a role that was publicly advertised, and Talemo Waqa as Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO), a decision endorsed by the Board.
Sewabu stressed that both appointments are crucial as Fiji Rugby begins preparations for its immersion into the Tier 1 nations category, including the Fiji Water Flying Fijians’ participation in the Nations Cup in July 2026.
“These appointments are not just necessary, they are legitimate,” Sewabu said. “The CFO position was advertised, while the COO role was considered by the Board to allow the CEO to fully focus on strategic planning and Nations Cup preparations.”
“Once the new strategic plan and organizational structure are endorsed, the COO role will be formally advertised.”
Waqanivalu has already been assisting the FRU with governance reforms, having chaired the Interim Fiji Rugby Referees Association and the Interim Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby body, as well as serving as Acting Tournament Director for domestic competitions. Sewabu noted that these roles were constitutionally mandated and approved at board level, underscoring the legitimacy of his appointment.
Meanwhile, Waqa’s appointment as Acting COO is designed to free Sewabu to concentrate on the demands ahead of the Nations Cup.
“This work has already commenced and requires a lot more focus,” Sewabu explained.
The FRU highlighted Waqanivalu’s extensive financial leadership experience across both public and private sectors, including senior roles at the Public Rental Board, iTaukei Land Trust Board, and Water Authority of Fiji.
Waqa brings more than 30 years of experience in sports administration, education, and high-performance consultancy. A former Manager of the FRFU High-Performance Unit, he has contributed significantly to rugby development in Fiji and across the Pacific.
Prior to joining FRU as Acting COO, he served for 13 years as Regional Training Manager with Oceania Rugby, where he played a pivotal role in advancing high-performance systems across the region.
