Introducing Our New Strategy & Transformation Manager, Hannah Grainger

Boroughmuir Rugby and Community Sports Club has big ambitions - not just in delivering rugby but in becoming a leading community hub based out of our Clubhouse at Meggetland. As many members will know, the past few years have seen considerable activity aimed at strengthening both our operations and our long-term sustainability.

To support this, the Board engaged Hannah Grainger as a Commercial Consultant to carry out a strategic review across Operations, Commercial, and Marketing. Following the success of that work, we are delighted to welcome Hannah into a new role as Strategy & Transformation Manager, leading our efforts toward sustainable growth and impact. “Hannah’s appointment marks a key milestone for the club as we shift from ambition to delivery. Her experience and insight are already making a difference.” – Derek Binnie, Chair of Boroughmuir Ltd.

I caught up with Hannah to find out more.

Andy: Hannah, welcome to Boroughmuir! Tell us a bit about yourself and your professional journey so far.

Hannah: Thanks, Andy! Well, first up - I’m a proud New Zealander and only moved to Scotland at the end of last year. Before that, I was working as Commercial Manager at Waikato Rugby back home. I’ve always loved sport - not just what happens on the field, but the community and commercial engines behind it! I’m at a point in life where I want to see the world and stretch myself professionally. So, moving to Edinburgh and getting involved with Boroughmuir is the perfect next step. I’m excited to roll my sleeves up and really get stuck in.

Andy: That’s a serious rugby pedigree you’re bringing with you! You’ve just completed a strategic review for us – what are your first impressions of Boroughmuir?

Hannah: Honestly, what a fantastic club you have here. From day one, it’s been incredibly welcoming. What’s stood out most is the number of passionate, committed volunteers – people who really care and give so much to the club. There are already some exciting projects underway, and I see real potential to build on those foundations and develop a more sustainable model for the future. And of course, rugby is at the centre of it all,it's why we are all here - bridging the gap between rugby and operations is where I hope to add real value.

Andy: You mention sustainability. What does that look like for a club like Boroughmuir?Hannah: For me, sustainability is about making sure the club can thrive both now and in the long term - financially, operationally, and socially, to enable us to achieve all our rugby ambitions  That means developing our revenue streams, supporting our volunteers so they don’t burn out, and ensuring we’re inclusive and accessible to the wider community. It also includes thinking more strategically about partnerships - finding like-minded businesses and organisations that align with our values and want to grow with us. 

Andy: Finally, for stakeholders reading this, how can they get involved in the journey ahead?Hannah: Best way is to show up and keep being part of the club! Whether that’s attending events, volunteering, sharing our updates on social media, or even just giving feedback – it all matters. This is a community club built around rugby and we’re entering an exciting phase of growth – and the more voices and hands involved, the better.

Andy: Thanks again Hannah for telling us all about what you’re doing and hoping to achieve. If anyone has any questions for either Hannah about what she’s doing, please contact her at commercial.muir_ltd@boroughmuirsports.co.uk or feel free to contact me at communications@boroughmuirsports.co.uk and I can point you in Hannah's direction.