Australian Rugby Union will bid farewell to the game’s longest-serving executive when Matt Carroll stands down next month as Deputy CEO.

Mr Carroll has held senior positions at both NSW Rugby Union and ARU over almost two decades.

He announced this week that he will leave ARU on March 31 to pursue other interests.

ARU CEO Bill Pulver said: "While I am disappointed to lose a leader of Matt’s stature, with such deep knowledge of Australian Rugby, I do understand that having devoted 18 years of his life to our game he now feels it is time to move on."

Mr Carroll held many executive positions covering all aspects of the Game from the professional players, community and clubs and commercial programs.

As the CEO of NSW Rugby Union he led the organisation’s recovery from a significant debt position in the early 2000s.

One of his major achievements was General Manager of Rugby World Cup 2003 and was awarded the Order of Australia the following year for his services to Rugby.

Mr Carroll also served two periods as ARU Deputy CEO.

"Many of the initiatives that have helped Rugby achieve its status as one of the major professional sports in Australia have been led by Matt and for that we are truly grateful," said Mr Pulver.

"I know his association with the game will remain extremely close and we wish him every success with his future challenges."