Former All Black Mark Robinson has been named New Zealand Rugby's (NZR) new chief executive, replacing Steve Tew in the role.
Tew is standing down from the role after the Rugby World Cup, ending a 25-year career in rugby administration, including the last 12 years as NZR boss.
Robinson, who played nine tests between 2000-02, will start his new role in early January.
NZ Rugby chair Brent Impey said Robinson's appointment came after an intense recruitment process over the past two months.
The 45-year-old is currently on the NZR board and is a World Rugby councillor, after serving as Taranaki Rugby CEO from 2007-12.
"We are delighted that Mark has put his hand up for this role," said Impey. "He has been an incredibly insightful director on the board and at the international rugby table, he has been a sound and respected voice.
"This is a very exciting time, as Mark starts to transition into the role, working closely with Steve [Hansen] at the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
"Mark will vacate his seat on the board when he officially starts and his appointment also creates an extra seat on the World Rugby Council, which we will consider in due course."
Robinson, who also won two Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders, can't wait to start his new role in the coming months.
"I have really enjoyed my roles on the board and at World Rugby, but I am truly excited by what this opportunity offers. I have a clear vision to continue to grow the great work already established under Steve's watch and recognise the significant responsibility we have in ensuring our game continues to flourish at all levels.
"With 140 staff based around the country, world-leading teams and competitions that traverse the entire calendar, I am humbled that the board believe I can help add to our legacy.
"There are some amazingly gifted, talented and hardworking people in and around New Zealand Rugby, and I am honoured to be given an opportunity to lead some of the best people in the world in their field."
In June, Tew announced he would stand down from the role in December, ending a 25-year career in rugby administration, including the last 12 years as NZR boss.
"After much reflection, I've decided that this is the best time for me to make way for someone else to lead New Zealand Rugby into the future and a new phase for our national game," he said, at the time.
"There are new and exciting changes coming as a result of the upcoming, new international calendar and a changing broadcast environment, as well as a new All Blacks head coach to be appointed, so it's the right time for me.
"I've not made this decision lightly. It's a job I love, and I consider it an absolute privilege, but it is for those reasons that I believe the time is right to step down.
"But for now, this year's priorities will be the Rugby World Cup in Japan, confirmation of our competition structures, completion of the sale of our broadcast content and to ensure a smooth transition for my replacement.
"Then, it will be time to leave, and share some time and a Classic [beer] or two with my family and friends."
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