Monday 8 January 2018 06:42, UK
Nigel Wood has been appointed chief executive of the Rugby League International Federation after stepping down from his role with the Rugby Football League.
Wood, who is currently serving as RLIF chairman, will replace David Collier when his contract runs out in May.
"I feel honoured and humbled to be asked to serve the RLIF as CEO for the next phase of its development," said Wood.
"International rugby league is a wonderful and essential aspect of our sport as the images, testimonials and emotions of the recent World Cups have once again demonstrated.
"I believe these are exciting times as more and more people recognise the role of international rugby league has in developing the whole sport.
"New countries and investors are attracted to our sport and I look forward to working with all parties, clubs and other key stakeholders to ensure that we give players, supporters and commercial and broadcast partners the most compelling international calendar that we possibly can."
Wood resigned as chief executive of the RFL this week after 10 years in the post.
He was appointed as Collier's successor by unanimous decision after impressing in his current role with the RLIF, overseeing a successful World Cup in 2013.
"We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Nigel to take over as the executive lead for the RLIF at this time," said RLIF deputy chairman John Grant.
"Nigel is a 10-year CEO with a proven track record as a rugby league administrator of the highest standard, is respected on both sides of the world, has an intimate understanding of the complex relationship between domestic and international rugby league, and provides a fast start in the role at a time when capitalising on the momentum created by the 2017 World Cups is critical."
