Queensland Rugby Union CEO Jim Carmichael will step down at the end of 2016 after opting not to seek an extension on his current contract.
Carmichael has been in the role for the past seven years, having spent the past 25 years leading international and Australian-based businesses.
The outgoing CEO said he was satisfied with the progress made during his time at the organisation.
“In December, the QRU Board adopted our next five-year strategic plan, which will take the organisation through to 2020," Carmichael said in a statement.
“The industry has now also ratified and adopted the Australian Rugby Strategic Plan, which the QRU has been closely involved in with the ARU for a number of years.
“Although in sport, the work is never completed, I was satisfied with the transformation and reform we have put in place not only for Rugby in Queensland but also for the influence we have been able to have on the national and international strategy for the code.
“Therefore, I came to a decision last year that it was time for me pursue another major challenge in my career and the QRU Board has been aware of my thinking since before the Christmas break.
Carmichael's looming departure in the latest in a host of recent changes at Ballymore with long-time chairman Rod McCall and head coach Richard Graham both moving on in recent weeks.
Carmichael said he would work to ensure a smooth transition for his successor, whose first major responsibility will likely be the selection of a 2017 head coach.
"The QRU Board will shortly commence a recruitment process for the organisation’s next CEO, which will allow the successful candidate to have the necessary input into the QRU’s process to appoint a St.George Queensland Reds Head Coach ahead of the 2017 Super Rugby season. The CEO recruitment process will also allow an appropriate transfer of knowledge and transition period between myself, the Board and the incoming CEO."
