Mark Darbon has been appointed the chief executive of The R&A and secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews.

Darbon replaces Martin Slumbers in his new role, having moved from Rugby Union outfit Northmapton Saints where he was chief executive.

It was reported that Darbon was in-line to be the next chief executive of the Scottish Rugby Union, however his latest move marks a distinct change of direction, where he'll also become the secretary of the 270 year-old club which has a global membership of more than 2,400 players.

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Speaking about his new role, Darbon said: "I am thrilled and honoured to be taking up these positions with The R&A and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews and to be moving into golf, a sport I have always loved.

"The R&A is a globally renowned organisation and does so much to ensure that golf prospers from grassroots through to the professional game. I am looking forward to working with a hugely talented team of staff, the Club membership and such an impressive array of partner organisations to achieve even more success in the years to come."

Niall Farquharson, Chairman of The R&A, added: "We were greatly impressed with Mark’s knowledge and experience of the global sport industry and his ability to develop successful teams and deliver fantastic events.

"We believe he will be an excellent leader for The R&A and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews and will play a key role in helping us to achieve our goal of ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for golf."