STEPHEN BROWN will be taking over the role of Acting CEO from Martyn Thomas as of today, Tuesday, November 29.

As previously stated, Martyn Thomas will also on December 16 relinquish the chairmanship of England Rugby 2015 , the directorship of European Rugby Cup Ltd and step down from the International Rugby Board Council and the Six Nations Committee.

Martyn Thomas said: “Stephen has increasingly taken over the day to day running of the RFU since I announced on November 2 that I would not be renewing my contract after December 16. He has demonstrated in the time that he has been at the RFU that he is immensely capable and this has been underlined once again in the last few weeks. It is therefore entirely logical that he takes on the role of acting CEO as soon as possible. He is highly respected by the staff and I have every confidence that he will provide the stability and leadership needed until a new permanent CEO takes office.

“It has been an honour to serve the Union, most recently as Acting CEO where I have been lucky enough to get to know the staff who continue to work so hard for the good of the game. They are led by a superb Executive. The RFU has much to look forward to, not least hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2015 and I wish them well.”

RFU Chairman Paul Murphy said: “Our thanks go to Martyn for all the time and effort he has invested on behalf of the RFU in England over the years. Much credit in particular must go to him for the decision to award England the hosting of the Rugby World Cup in 2015.  I have said before that Stephen Brown is a great asset to the Union and we have every confidence that he will have a positive influence during this transitional period until the new CEO takes office.”