The former Chief Executive of one of the world's largest hotel chains has been appointed chairman of the tournament organising body for the 2015 World Cup in England.
Andrew Cosslett, previously Chief Executive of InterContinental Hotels Group plc will take up his full-time position as chairman of England Rugby 2015 in April.
Cosslett has held the post on an interim basis since former Rugby Football Union Chairman and acting Chief Executive Martyn Thomas stood down in December.
England Rugby 2015 is a wholly owned subsidiary of the RFU.
Cosslett will lead the England Rugby 2015 board and work alongside the organisation's Chief Executive Paul Vaughan, a longtime Twickenham insider.
"I am passionate about the game and delighted to be able to play my part in delivering World Cup 2015," Cosslett said in a statement.
"England 2015 is a great challenge but a tremendous opportunity and I look forward to working with Paul Vaughan, England Rugby 2015, the Rugby Football Union and Rugby World Cup Limited to deliver what we intend to be the best World Cup yet."
Vaughan added: "I am sure Andy Cosslett will make a great chairman for England Rugby 2015.
"The international business and marketing skills that he brings to the board will continue to be invaluable in his new role as chairman.
"He has great empathy with the game and I think we will make a great team."
New Zealand hold the World Cup after beating France 8-7 in a nailbiting 2011 final on home soil at Auckland's Eden Park in October.
AFP
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