Nigel Wood OBE Appointed Permanent Chairman of Rugby Football League

Nigel Wood OBE has been officially appointed as the permanent chairman of the Rugby Football League (RFL), following a decisive vote by council members in Salford.

The appointment marks a leadership transition for the governing body, as Wood returns to a permanent chairing role after previously serving as the RFL’s CEO between 2011 and 2018. His tenure is set to run until March 2027, with the newly confirmed independent board holding the option to extend his term by a further 12 months.

Wood, who also took on the role of Rugby League commercial chair in June, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the sport through a period of structural evolution.

“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.”

“There is much to be enthused about as Super League celebrates its 30th birthday and we continue to implement the important findings of our Strategic Review.

I’m looking forward to working together with all of Rugby League’s stakeholders as we formulate a strategic plan of delivery and change,” Wood said. 

The Rugby Football League Council also confirmed the appointment of four independent non-executive directors to strengthen the board’s governance.

Dermot Power and Lord Jonathan Caine have been appointed for four-year terms, while Sara Symington will serve for three years. Emma Rosewarne MBE has been appointed to sit on the board until March 2028. 

In addition to the board appointments, the meeting saw members vote to formally admit the new Salford Red Devils club entity, necessitating an amendment to the RFL’s Articles of Association. This move ensures the club’s continued participation and alignment with the governing body’s professional standards as the league enters its milestone 30th season of Super League competition.

The permanent seating of the board provides the RFL with the executive stability required to navigate a shifting media rights landscape and ongoing stadium infrastructure challenges across the pyramid.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.