Steve Brown has resigned as chief executive of the Rugby Football Union, after a little over a year in the role.
Brown succeeded Ian Ritchie in September 2017, but has announced he will leave the role at the end of the year.
Director of professional rugby Nigel Melville will be interim CEO until a replacement for Brown is appointed.
Brown commented: “This has been a very difficult decision for me to make, and I informed the RFU Board earlier this week that the time is right for me to step down and take some time out. I’ve loved my time in rugby, and am deeply proud to have made a contribution to a sport I love.
“It has been a fascinating 7 ½ years, and a great honour to lead the RFU over the last 14 months. I am proud of the people who make the Union – including our hard working and committed staff and the brilliant volunteers who make the game. I’m sad to leave, but the Union is in good shape, with an excellent leadership team in place.
“I have always been a rugby fan, and always will be, and I wish all our England teams, coaches, and everyone involved with the game at all levels the very best for the future, which looks bright for the English game.”