Stephen Black, principal of Ballymena Academy, will depart the school on 31 August 2026 to assume a senior position with the Irish Rugby Football Union.

Dr David J Johnson, chair of the Board of Governors, notified parents of the change in a letter. Mr Black has led the grammar school since 2014. The board praised his 12 years of service, noting sustained academic results and growth in co-curricular programs.

Recruitment for a new principal starts now. Richard Ross will serve as acting principal from 1 September 2026 until a permanent appointment.

Mr Black holds roles within the IRFU, including chair of the Rugby Committee and membership on the Management Committee. He joined the IRFU Committee in 2019.

At Ulster Rugby, he acted as the principals' representative on the Ulster Branch. He chaired the Schools Committee and Rugby Committee there.

Mr Black served on review groups for domestic rugby and player pathways. He previously chaired the Schools Committee and Age-Grade Committee at national level.

He maintains ties to Malone RFC, where he was 1st XV team manager, chairman of rugby, and club president in the 2003/2004 season.