“We have enjoyed success on and off the pitch over the past few years, but there is still plenty of room for improvement and a lot to do as a business.”
She continued: “There are challenges ahead for both Saints and the wider rugby community, but we have a really strong strategy and an in-depth understanding of the Club’s finances that will allow us to lead the way in our new role as we look to return to profitability as quickly as possible and build a sustainable future.”
Northampton beat Bath 25-21 at Twickenham in last season’s Premiership final, winning their first title in 10 years.
However, the club announced a pre-tax loss of £1.1m for the year to June 2023, despite record revenues of almost £22m.
Chapman will take up his new role at the end of November when Darbonne leaves for a new job at the R&A, which organises the Open Championship each year.
Chairman John White described her as an “excellent choice”, saying: “We have been very committed to ensuring a smooth transition following Mark Darbon’s successful tenure. I am confident that Julia’s understanding of our priorities going forward will help us to continue to improve how we operate and deliver success both on and off the pitch.
“Northampton Saints are healthy but continuous improvement is everything to us so we would welcome her insight and ideas going forward.”
Chapman is the second female chief executive in the Premier League, following Leicester Tigers’ Andrea Finzen. Lucy Rae stepped down from the role at Saracens at the end of January.
Saints begin the new season with a replay against Bath at The Rec on Friday 20 September.
