Highly-regarded Isherwood was a founding member of the first Women’s Rugby Football Union, before acting as its first Chair.
Her services to the women’s game earned her an OBE in 2003 and she was the first woman appointed to World Rugby’s Rugby Committee in 2009.
In further recognition of her outstanding contributions to rugby, Isherwood was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2014.
In her new Lions role, her immediate focus will be on overseeing the first ever Howden Lions Women’s Series in New Zealand in 2027. She will also sit on the board of The British & Irish Lions.
Ieuan Evans MBE, Chair of The British & Irish Lions said: “This a hugely significant appointment for The British & Irish Lions ahead of our inaugural Lions Women’s Tour of New Zealand in 2027.
“Supporting the growth of the women’s game is a key strategic priority for the organisation and we are now writing yet more exciting chapters of Lions history, of which Carol becomes a key part following the Royal London feasibility study.
“Carol has been a leading figure in women’s rugby on and off the pitch - as a player, coach, and administrator and her unique insight into the game will help guide us as we continue to build on the Lions legacy.”
Isherwood has had a significant impact on the development of women’s rugby, captaining the original Great Britain and England women’s sides of the mid-80s, earning 15 international caps in total.
Following her playing career Isherwood coached England at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1994, after coaching experience through divisional sides and Emerging England.
Over her coaching career she also worked as the Head Coach for England U19s, and club sides Henley and Richmond – and was also a Performance Director & Director of Rugby.
Ben Calveley, CEO of The British & Irish Lions, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Carol as the first Chair of the Lions Women’s Committee, following a competitive recruitment process.
“Carol will now oversee the planning of the Howden Lions Women’s Series in New Zealand in 2027. And with less than three years to go, the excitement and anticipation is building amongst players and fans as we build an unforgettable Tour.
“Carol has already played a pivotal role in women’s rugby and she is one of sport’s most-respected and experienced leaders. So her passion and expertise will be invaluable to the Lions in ourmission to deliver the ultimate rugby experiences for both players and fans.”
Isherwood has also held positions on committees and boards for the Rugby Football Union Women, the Rugby Football Union, the Scottish Rugby Union, World Rugby, and the Football Association (FA).
Commenting on her appointment Carol Isherwood said: “I feel privileged to chair The British & Irish Lions Women’s Committee and join the Lions board at this very exciting time.
“Having worked in the women’s game for more than four decades, alongside experiencing the first-ever Great Britain and England women’s rugby teams, the Lions Women’s team and Tour provide another opportunity to showcase the women’s game.
“I am looking forward to contributing in a meaningful way to make the inaugural Lions Women’s Tour in New Zealand a success and how we can all work together to inspire and drive the continued growth of women’s rugby.”
