Francis Baron is to step down with the RFU next year

Rugby Football Union chief executive Francis Baron will relinquish his post in July 2010.

The 64-year-old has been in the position for 11 years and during his tenure England won the World Cup in 2003 and were finalists in 2007.

The RFU had a turnover in the past year of £119m with a net profit of £9m compared to £10m losses when he joined.

"I will be entering my 65th year next year and I felt it was the right time to set my retirement date," said Baron.

"It will enable him or her a full year in office prior to a change in the Chairmanship of the RFU in 2011 and the World Cup in New Zealand later that year together with ensuring senior management continuity through a period of change.

"July 2010 also provides a natural break point for me and not just because it is the end of the season."

One of Baron's main achievements has been the redevelopment of the southern end of Twickenham which will be completed in December 2009.

Baron added: "All elements of the South Stand re-development project will have been completed by then and having secured the World Cup for England in 2015, the establishment of the 2015 operating company will need to commence in earnest in the following season.

606: DEBATE How will Baron's departure affect the RFU?

"Clearly my successor should lead on this and have a blank sheet of paper to work with.

"By July I will have had nearly 12 memorable years with many high points and will have visited hundreds of clubs all over the country and met many outstanding volunteers who do so much to run the Community game."

President of the RFU John Owen stated: "I would like to thank Francis for his outstanding contribution to the RFU in nearly 12 years as CEO.

"I have had the privilege of working with Francis since the day he arrived at the RFU, and have served with him on the management board since 2001, and have witnessed the total commitment he has given to his job.

"When it would have been easier to sit in Twickenham and manage the game from there he got out to the grassroots game.

"I have lost count of the clubs he and I have visited together and where he has shown his passion and intelligence in helping grow the game."

The RFU have begun the search for Baron's successor.

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