Will Chignell, the Sky Sports rugby reporter, is to join the RFU as Head of Media.
Chignell begins his new job on July 4, one of a raft of appointments being made by new chief executive John Steele in a re-organisation of Twickenham ahead of the 2015 World Cup being staged in England.
Chignell spent 16 years as a rugby reporter and commentator.
Announcing the appointment today, the RFU described his role as leading “the RFU’s media operations across the board to ensure the organisation has a clear media strategy which is closely aligned with its business strategy.
“This will include media responsibility for all parts of the RFU including the senior England team and age grade sides but extending beyond that to cover all commercial activities and the grassroots game, further enhancing the organisation’s media profile across all broadcast and print channels.”
“We are adding a hugely experienced media expert to our already strong media team and we are delighted to welcome Will to the RFU,” Steele said.
“This is a once in a lifetime challenge which I am incredibly excited about,” Chignell said. “As rugby continues to grow, with the 2015 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, the media are crucial stakeholders in helping the sport develop further. I am looking forward to working with all parties to achieve this.”