ABI Ekoku, the interim chief executive of the Rugby Football League, has been appointed to the same role at St Helens.
No fulltime RFL CEO has been appointed and it is speculated the NRL will have a say in the identity of the successful candidate as part of its proposed takeover of the English game.
Club chairman Eamonn McManus said: “Abi has a wealth of relevant experience in senior administration, elite performance, commerce, finance, marketing and media in sport, particularly in rugby league, stretching back decades.
“He will bring professionalism, maturity and experience to our club as we look to improve our commercial and sporting performances, as well as strengthen our brand and profile nationally and internationally.
“I’m sure he will be warmly welcomed and supported by our staff, sponsors and supporters alike as he looks to improve our club at every level.
“Along with my board of directors, I look forward to working with and supporting Abi in the years ahead.”
In the same statement, Ekoku was quoted as saying: “Excellence, resilience, ambition and flair are the foundations that have made St Helens the most successful club of the Super League era and I feel profoundly honoured and excited to be entrusted with the opportunity to forge new pathways for engagement, growth, and achievement at every level.
“I can’t wait to embrace the incredible energy of our staff, supporters, and partners, new and old, as we collaborate to write the next chapter together.”