Friday 14 October 2016 16:42, UK
Andy Cosslett has been elected Chairman of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) Board following today’s RFU Council meeting.
He will take up the position with immediate effect, replacing Bill Beaumont who became Chairman of World Rugby earlier this year.
Cosslett previously held an Independent non-executive director role on the RFU Board and oversaw the delivery of the biggest Rugby World Cup in history as Chairman of England Rugby 2015.
The 61-year-old has a lifelong association with the game and played the sport for 25 years. He is currently vice president of Weybridge Vandals.
His 30-year global business experience has seen him hold CEO roles at Fitness First and InterContinental Hotels Group. He also spent 14 years with Cadbury Schweppes in a variety of senior roles around the world.
Andy Cosslett said: "I am delighted to be appointed Chair of the RFU Board. It is a privilege to be involved with this game that has given me so much throughout my life.
"My role is to make sure we have strong governance in the Union and ensure that we make the most of all the resources we have at our disposal in this country for the good of the game."
The Council also approved proposals for a new women's domestic club competition, backed and run by the RFU, which will replace the existing Women's Premiership from next season.
Meanwhile, England's successful hosting of the Rugby World Cup ensured the RFU almost doubled its total revenue for the last financial year.
The governing body saw its annual revenue increase to £407.1m, up £199.2m on the same period in the previous year.
RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie said: "This was a truly exceptional year. Despite the huge disappointment of England's early exit, by running the widely acclaimed 'most successful Rugby World Cup ever' we have delivered significant investment into rugby both at home and globally.
"The legacy will continue to benefit our community clubs and the sport at every level."
You can watch Liverpool v Man Utd, plus England's tour of Bangladesh and the British Masters on Sky Sports. Upgrade now and enjoy six months at half price!
