The Rugby League International Federation have announced David Collier OBE as its new CEO.
Collier, who has experience working on two world governing bodies in different sports in the past, will take up the role from April, being based permanently in London.
Collier’s most notable role is perhaps with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) as their CEO, a role he has held for the last 10 years.
“I am honoured by the opportunity to lead the RLIF and the sport of Rugby League and thank the Chairman and the Board for their trust in me,” Collier said.
“My first priority will be to meet with the broadest possible range of stakeholders , to develop and commence delivery of our strategic plan and to create an international calendar which builds upon the strength of our Club competitions throughout the world and the success of the World Cup.
“Rugby League is one of the most exciting sports in the world and the enthusiasm of the crowds and television audiences at the recent World Cup demonstrates the great opportunity which we have to further expand and develop our sport.”
RLIF chairman Nigel Wood commented: “The RLIF is delighted to have appointed a CEO with 30 years’ experience of leading a number of the world’s leading sports organisations .
“David has the highest reputation in the world of sport and brings a wealth of international experience as the RLIF seeks to build upon the success of the 2013 World Cup and the exciting prospects for the Rugby League World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in 2017 . The Board were unanimous in their decision to appoint David and we look forward to working with our new CEO to ensure the success of the global expansion of our sport .”
