JAMES Chapron was the “outstanding candidate” when picking a new rugby general manager for the Dragons, according to chairman David Buttress.

Chapron, who continues in his role as the region’s academy manager, takes up the post following a restructuring on the back of former managing director Mike Davies’ departure.

A statement released by the Dragons said Chapron will work alongside the head coach to lead the Rodney Parade outfit’s “high-performance rugby environment”.

“James is the outstanding candidate for this role,” said Buttress.

“He has demonstrated his skill set in performance management and coaching, has an unrivalled knowledge of the talent in our first team and our pathway, plus has a proven ability to combine roles, which gives him a unique perspective on our rugby department and will provide the Dragons with long-term stability.

“James will work closely with the head coach and the heads of medical, data analysis, strength and conditioning as well as the academy to produce an environment that breeds success.”

Chapron, a former Pontypool head coach, became Dragons performance manager in 2012 and the academy boss two years later, while he also took on defence coach duties for Wales U18s from 2013-2017.

He said: “I'm delighted to take up this new wider role at the Dragons, which brings a fresh challenge for me.

“My knowledge of rugby in this region will be key as I take on responsibility for overseeing all the region's rugby operations.

“I’m committed to delivering a high-performance environment for the players that translates into sustained on-field success. We're here to win and I look forward to helping make that happen.”

The new structure will be responsible for the delivery of rugby operations at the region including performance planning, recruitment, contract negotiations and budget management as well as staff welfare, development and performance review.