New Zealand Rugby League confirm CEO resignation in wake of 2017 World Cup failure

Kiwis players are dejected after losing to Tonga at the Rugby League World Cup.

New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) Chair Reon Edwards confirmed the resignation of CEO Alex Hayton on Wednesday.

As first reported by the Herald yesterday, Hayton had been tipped to resign, in the wake of the dissappointing World Cup campaign and the two month long review that followed it.

"Alex has been a great servant to the game over the last decade and has seen through a number of major milestones in his time as both CFO and CEO," said NZRL chairman Reon Edwards.

"The discussions leading up to his decision to leave have been entirely amicable."

After 10 years' service with NZRL, Hayton said he's looking forward to a new challenge.

"We're starting a new World Cup cycle which coincides with our 2018-2021 strategic plan focused on grassroots development. The next CEO needs to be able to commit to the term of the cycle to see the plan through."

While unable to comment on the upcoming Review Panel's findings, Hayton said he was prepared to accept his responsibility in the team's disappointing performances.

The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) Board will release the recommendations from a comprehensive review of the Kiwis' 2017 Rugby League World Cup campaign within the next fortnight.

Edwards said a recruitment process would begin immediately.

To ensure that the many opportunities in front of the NZRL continue to be progressed with Board oversight, upon Hayton's departure the NZRL's Deputy Chairman – experienced company CEO and director Hugh Martyn – will take up the role of Acting CEO on a part-time basis.