RFU Chief Steps Down With Immediate Effect

Martyn Thomas has left the Rugby Football Union with immediate effect, with Stephen Brown taking over as acting chief executive.

Thomas announced earlier this month that he intended to leave the governing body on 16th December at the end of his contract, but has now brought forward his departure.

The former RFU chairman is also leaving as chairman of the organising committee for the 2015 World Cup in England.

In a statement, Thomas said: ‘Stephen has shown in the time that he has been at the RFU that he is immensely capable.’

‘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.’

Thomas survived a vote of no confidence in September after threatening legal action if a report by judge and RFU disciplinary officer Jeff Blackett was made public.

The report referred to the exit of predecessor John Steele.

Blackett’s report was critical of Thomas, 67, who faced the prospect of a misconduct charge before being told on Tuesday that he had no case to answer.

The new acting CEO, Stephen Brown, was chief financial officer of the RFU before taking over his new role.

RFU chairman Paul Murphy added in a statement: ‘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.’