Gatland had a successful three-year stint at Wasps

Gatland, currently in charge of New Zealand side Waikato, was among those the RFU were believed to have shortlisted for the new job.

But he told the Daily Telegraph: "It's not a job I want at this time."

Former Australia coach Eddie Jones was reportedly interviewed by head-hunters and shortlisted for the post.

Jones, who steered Saracens away from relegation trouble in the last three months of last season, is due to start a three-year contract with the Queensland Reds later this year.

England World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward, former South Africa coach Nick Mallett and former Gloucester boss Nigel Melville are also believed to be on a shortlist drawn up by the RFU's head-hunters.

The role was created following a review of the England coaching structure in the wake of another disappointing Six Nations campaign.

The director will be responsible for all levels of England's representative game, from the senior side to the under-19s as well as assisting head coach Andy Robinson with team selection and administrative responsibilities.

Gatland joined Wasps in 2002 as a forwards coach but two months later became director of rugby following Melville's departure to Gloucester.

He won three straight Premiership titles as well as leading Wasps to Heineken Cup glory in 2004.