New RFU chief waiting in the wings

New RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie will leave the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club and take up his role with the RFU on February 27.

Ritchie also stands down as the Independent Non-Executive Director of The Football League and from the Board of Wembley Stadium.

RFU Chairman Paul Murphy said: "We are very pleased that Ian can join so soon. It is well acknowledged that he has a fantastic reputation and the RFU will quickly benefit. His appointment has been exceptionally well received around the game and I know the staff cannot wait to work with him."

Ritchie said: "I am very much looking forward to meeting and working with new colleagues and partners at the RFU. There is much to be positive about, seeing a new generation of players emerge in the Six Nations and seizing the unique chance to grow the game when hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2015 is very exciting.

"Joining the RFU as CEO was an irresistible opportunity. It was a very difficult decision to leave the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club but I know they have a fantastic team and I wish them continued success for the future," he added.

Ritchie was appointed to The Football League Board in April 2004, in a ground-breaking move that saw him become the first independent Non-Executive Director of a domestic football governing body.  He is the only person to have held the position to date. He joined the Wembley Stadium Board in July 2008 during the new stadium's second year of operation. He stood down in December following his RFU appointment.

Ritchie said: "It has been a real pleasure and an honour serving on the Board of The Football League and at Wembley. I wish them both every good fortune in the future and look forward to keeping a sporting connection."