Nigel Wood is to stand down from his role as chief executive of the Rugby Football League after 10 years.

Wood has been an RFL board member for 16 years and took on the top job in 2007, but will leave the organisation later this month.

He said: “I am extremely honoured and privileged to have served as Chief Executive of the Rugby Football League.

“I am an unashamed Rugby League fan and can think of no greater honour that be asked to fulfil the role of CEO for the Rugby Football League.

“However leadership presents many tests, and the greatest of these is to recognise when it is time to step out and this is the right moment to do so.

“I would like to place on record my unreserved thanks to the many excellent colleagues, the clubs and all those that I have worked with throughout the last sixteen years and wish them the best of luck for the future.”

Ralph Rimmer will act as interim chief executive while the RFL search for a new chief executive.

Wood is now expected to take on a role with the RLIF following the departure of David Collier.