Hepher steps down as Exeter Chiefs Head Coach

Exeter Chiefs have announced a major coaching restructure, with Rob Hunter stepping up as Head Coach while Ali Hepher transitions into a development-focused role.

The changes take immediate effect as the club looks ahead to the next phase of its evolution.

Hepher, who has served as Head Coach, will remain in place to oversee the backs and attack strategy until the end of the season.

Following that, the club plans to appoint a new backs and attack coach, while Hepher moves into a transition coach role, focusing on the senior academy players progressing into the first team.

Rob Baxter, Director of Rugby, expressed gratitude for Hepher’s contributions and highlighted the strategic importance of the restructure.

“I would like to thank Ali for his incredible hard work and dedication to the team and club over the last 16 years. We have experienced some lows and enjoyed some incredible highs together, and he has been a key part of the successes this club has had.

“I know he is now really looking forward to a return to development coaching with our best young players to ensure we get the very best out of our talent pool.”

Baxter believes this transition comes at a crucial moment. “I feel now, coming out of the Premiership Rugby Cup period, is the right time for us to start the process of heading in a different direction with elements of our game next season. A new attack coach with different ideas and practices will help us move in the right direction as we strive to return to the top levels of the domestic and European game.”

The changes also present a significant opportunity for Rob Hunter, who moves into the Head Coach role with immediate effect.

“This is also a huge opportunity for Rob Hunter to organise and run the programme,” said Baxter. “He has a great appetite for the game and the challenges ahead. I feel a fresh burst of ideas and energy, alongside the increased responsibilities he will have, will bring out the best in him and prove successful for the club.”

Despite the changes, several key members of the Chiefs' coaching staff will remain in their current roles:

• Ross McMillan (Assistant Forwards Coach)

• Haydn Thomas (Attack and Kick Battle Coach)

• Ricky Pellow (Skills and Development Coach)

Exeter Rugby Club CEO and Chairman Tony Rowe CBE has given his full support to Baxter’s decision, reinforcing the club’s commitment to building for future success.

Following the Premiership Rugby Cup Final against Bath Rugby on 16 March, the club has also issued an injury update.

Fullback Tommy Wyatt left the field within the opening 10 minutes of the final after suffering a hamstring injury. Back-rower Ethan Roots also sustained a hamstring injury in the first half of the match. Both players have undergone medical assessments and will now enter a period of rehabilitation.

Neither Wyatt nor Roots will be available until the next block of Gallagher Premiership fixtures at the earliest.

The Chiefs will continue to monitor their progress as the team looks ahead to the remainder of the season.