Nigel Wood appointed RFL chair on permanent basis with four independent directors confirmed
Nigel Wood has been appointed permanent chair of the Rugby Football League, with four independent non-executive directors also confirmed following an RFL Council meeting in Salford on Tuesday.
Wood, a former RFL chief executive between 2011 and 2018, will serve in the role until March 2027, with the option of a further 12-month extension. He had returned to the governing body last spring as senior executive director and was also appointed chair of RL Commercial in June.
The RFL Council also approved the appointments of Dermot Power, Lord Jonathan Caine, Sara Symington and Emma Rosewarne MBE as independent non-executive directors. Power and Caine will serve four-year terms, Symington has been appointed for three years, while Rosewarne will remain in post until March 2028.
All candidates had been recommended by the RFL’s nominations committee, with Council members voting in favour of the proposals.
“I am honoured and grateful that members have voted for me to chair the RFL Board as we undertake important work in our bid to grow the sport,” said Wood on his appointment.
"There is much to be enthused about as Super League celebrates its 30th birthday and we continue to implement the findings of our strategic review.
“With the rest of the board now confirmed, I’m looking forward to working with all stakeholders as we develop a clear plan for delivery and change.”
Council members also voted to admit the new Salford Red Devils club, with the Articles of Association amended accordingly. Super League celebrates its 30th birthday in this weekend’s Round Six fixtures.