Nigel Wood

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.

Wood, who is also chairman of the Rugby League International Federation, has served on the RFL board since 2001.

"I am extremely honoured and privileged to have served as chief executive of the Rugby Football League," said Wood.

"I am an unashamed rugby league fan and can think of no greater honour than to be asked to fulfil the role of CEO for the Rugby Football League.

"However, leadership presents many tests, and the greatest of these is to recognise when it is time to step out and this is the right moment to do so.