Brown gets RFU top job

The appointment concludes an extensive selection process led by a Board nominations panel which concluded on August 31. The appointment received RFU Board approval on Friday.

Steve Brown is currently Chief Officer, Business Operations at the RFU, and he succeeds Ian Ritchie who announced his retirement earlier this year.

Steve Brown joined the RFU as Chief Financial Officer on June 10, 2011. He also served as Managing Director of England Rugby 2015, responsible for organizing the England 2015 Rugby World Cup, widely acclaimed as the most successful Rugby World Cup ever. The impact of hosting the event saw the highest annual turnover in the RFU's history and record investment in rugby.

He was subsequently appointed RFU Chief Officer, Business Operations with responsibility for Technology, Finance, Human Resources, Legal & Governance, IPF, International Relations & Public Affairs, Twickenham Stadium and in addition is the Chief Financial Officer of the RFU.

"Over the last six years, Steve has shown us all exactly what he can deliver," said RFU Chairman Andy Cosslett.

"He has undertaken a series of important strategic and operational roles for the RFU and I'm delighted to appoint him as CEO. His passion for rugby and his commitment to rugby's values are obvious to everyone who has worked with him, and he will lead a strong executive team who are committed to making rugby in England the best in the world."

Brown commented: This is the job of a lifetime for me. I'm thrilled to be given this opportunity to lead a sport I love, in an organisation I have been proud to work for over the last six years, and I look forward to leading the team as we work to grow the game at every level." 

Steve has been a club and international rugby fan for many years is keen on motorsport and loves music, playing occasionally as a session guitarist. He lives in Oxfordshire with his wife and three daughters.

His appointment as CEO is effective from Monday, September 4.