Rick Parry, the English Premier League's first chief executive, has been named as chair designate of the English Football League (EFL).

Parry, who oversaw the growth of the Premier League into the world's most lucrative football league during his tenure between 1991 and 1997, will succeed Ian Lenagan, who stepped down in September last year.

He will be presented to EFL Clubs as the board's preferred candidate on 26 September and, if endorsed by the clubs, will be put forward for formal ratification at a general meeting.

In his new role, Parry will be responsible for overseeing the growth and development of the EFL with the aim of ensuring the continued strength of EFL competitions, commercial success and governance.

Parry is considered to be one of the UK’s most experienced leaders in football, having also served as chief executive of Liverpool Football Club from 1997 to 2009.

Debbie Jevans CBE, who was appointed Interim chair in September 2018 – and stepped up to become executive chair in June 2019 – will reassume her previous role of senior independent director at the conclusion of the succession process.