London: Kit McConnell is leaving as head of the Rugby World Cup to become sports director of the International Olympic Committee.
The International Rugby Board announced the move Wednesday.
McConnell has served in the rugby post for 10 years, a period that covered three World Cups in Australia, France and New Zealand. He leaves two years before the 2015 tournament in England.
Rugby sevens will be part of the Olympic program at the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro.
The IRB says McConnell will begin his job as IOC sports director early in 2014.
McConnell will succeed Christophe Dubi, who is becoming executive director of the Olympic Games.
