The Scarlets, the Llanelli-based rugby union team, has confirmed that chief executive Paul Sergeant has stepped down from the role "to take up a leading role in a UK-based business".

Sergeant joined the Magners League club last summer having served as general manager of the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia, as well as formerly running the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. However, his departure from the Scarlets is a planned one after being set business requirements to deliver in the 2009-10 season, including helping to rationalise the club's business plan.

Sergeant said: "I was only ever going to be with the Scarlets for a defined period of time which was agreed when I accepted the role as chief executive and it has been a job I have thoroughly enjoyed and got a lot out of. "I think we've achieved some important landmarks this season. There are still some key things I need to pursue in my career and the region has been happy to support me with that stance that since I joined."

Mark Davies has been named as Sergeant's replacement.