Tom Foley

Leading International Rugby Official

Topics

  • Building trust and credibility through integrity and fairness
  • Lessons from elite sport on leadership, teamwork, and performance
  • How preparation and focus drive success at the highest level
  • Communicating with clarity when every second counts
  • Behind-the-scenes insights from rugby’s biggest matches

About Tom Foley

Tom Foley is one of the most respected rugby officials in the world, with over a decade at the pinnacle of the game. Best known for his role as a Television Match Official (TMO), he has overseen some of rugby’s most high-stakes moments — including officiating the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final.

With more than 150 Premiership matches as a referee and 48 international test match appointments, Tom has demonstrated extraordinary calmness, accuracy, and authority in moments of intense pressure. His career also includes officiating at four Heineken Cup Finals and five Premiership Finals.

As a speaker, Tom blends sharp insight, humour, and real-life stories from the game to engage and inspire audiences. Whether booked as a guest speaker for a corporate dinner or delivering a keynote speech to a leadership team, his presentations focus on decision-making, high performance, and maintaining integrity when the stakes are high.

 

Speaking Topics & Key Themes

Decision-Making Under Pressure

Drawing on his experiences at the Rugby World Cup Final and countless high-pressure matches, Tom explains the mindset, preparation, and processes that allow him to make confident, accurate calls in seconds — even with millions watching. These lessons apply to any environment where quick, high-stakes decisions are critical.

High Performance in Elite Sport

Tom shares what it takes to perform consistently at the top level over many years. From preparation and training to mental resilience and focus, his insights reveal the habits that separate the good from the great — and how these same principles can help teams and individuals succeed in business.

Integrity & Fairness

As one of rugby’s most respected officials, Tom talks about the role of integrity in leadership and decision-making. He discusses why fairness and impartiality build trust, how to maintain these values under pressure, and the long-term benefits of leading with honesty and transparency.

Stories from the Top

Tom takes audiences behind the scenes of some of rugby’s biggest matches, sharing memorable moments, light-hearted anecdotes, and the human side of life as a match official. These stories give rare insight into the intensity, camaraderie, and split-second drama of elite sport.

 

What Audiences Can Expect

Tom Foley’s presentations are engaging, insightful, and rooted in over a decade of experience at the very highest level of international rugby. Having officiated in some of the sport’s biggest moments — including the Rugby World Cup Final — Tom brings a rare perspective on what it takes to remain calm, focused, and decisive when the pressure is immense and the scrutiny is global.

His delivery blends fascinating behind-the-scenes stories with clear, practical lessons that resonate far beyond the pitch. Audiences are drawn in by his authenticity, his ability to find humour in high-pressure situations, and his knack for turning sporting experiences into universally relevant lessons for business, leadership, and personal development.

Whether speaking to a corporate leadership team, a conference audience, or a sports organisation, Tom ensures his talks are tailored, relatable, and full of actionable insights that attendees can take away and use immediately.

Attendees leave with:

  • Proven strategies for making confident decisions under pressure — from handling game-changing moments on the world stage to managing high-stakes calls in everyday life.
  • Lessons on building trust through integrity and fairness — and why these values are vital for strong leadership.
  • Insights into sustaining high performance over the long term — including preparation, focus, and resilience techniques.
  • A unique insider’s perspective from one of rugby’s most trusted voices, offering an honest and engaging look into elite sport.

 

Ready to bring world-class sporting insight to your next event?

Book Tom Foley to share his unique perspective on decision-making, integrity, and high performance at the top of international rugby. Complete the form below to check his availability and discuss how he can tailor his keynote or guest speaking session to inspire your audience.

Make an Enquiry about Tom Foley

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