David Sole

Born on May 8, 1962, in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, England, David Michael Barclay Sole OBE established a notable career in rugby union before moving into executive coaching and business. He received his education at Blairmore prep school, Glenalmond College, and Exeter University. Sole played club rugby for Exeter University, Bath between 1983-1987, and Edinburgh Academicals from 1987-1992. His provincial career included playing for Scottish Exiles (then Anglo-Scots) and later Edinburgh District.

Sole’s international rugby career for Scotland spanned from 1986 to 1992, during which he earned 44 caps as a prop. He captained Scotland in 25 internationals, a record number at the time. A significant milestone in his career was leading Scotland to the Grand Slam victory in 1990, defeating England at Murrayfield. This moment is often cited as a demonstration of his leadership and resolve. Additionally, he was a key player for the British & Irish Lions, playing in three tests during their victorious tour of Australia in 1989. His leadership extended beyond his national team, as he captained the Barbarians side on several occasions, including against New Zealand in 1989, and led a World Invitation XV to victory over New Zealand in 1992.

Following his retirement from professional rugby, Sole was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 1993 New Year Honours. He then transitioned into a career in business and media. Since late 2000, he has worked as an executive coach, initially with Change Partnership and Whitehead Mann, before co-founding School for CEOs in 2011 with Patrick Macdonald. He became the Managing Partner of School for CEOs in 2017. He also served as a Non-executive director for AM Bid Services and worked as a co-commentator for BBC Scotland’s rugby union coverage. His three children have also achieved international recognition in sports, with two sons playing for the Scotland cricket team and a daughter for the Scotland netball team.