Significant changes at New Zealand Rugby are under way with the appointment of former All Black Mark Robinson as chief executive in waiting.
Robinson will take the reins in January 2020 as successor to long-term CEO Steve Tew, who announced in June he was standing down.
Tew's departure coincides with that of veteran head coach Steve Hansen and a number of senior players who are ending their time with the All Blacks after the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
Robinson, 45, played nine Tests at outside centre from 2000 to 2002 and could have earned more caps had he not prioritised post-graduate study at Cambridge University in England.
Robinson will vacate roles on the NZ Rugby board and the World Rugby council.
Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle released a statement on Monday afternoon, congratulating Robinson.
"On behalf of Rugby Australia I want to congratulate Mark on his appointment as the next Chief Executive of New Zealand Rugby," the statement read.
“Mark is a great choice for the role and has been a significant contributor to Rugby at a global level in his role on World Rugby Council.
“We look forward to working with Mark and continuing the relationship with NZR with Mark at the helm. We wish him well in his new role when he begins in January next year.
“We also thank outgoing chief executive, Steve Tew for his significant contribution to Rugby in Australasia and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
