Edwards has previously worked in administration roles for the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, the Baku 2015 European Games and the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

At Baku 2015, Edwards was the head of venue management, and at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, tournament director.

The APRLC represents seven of the 16 teams due to play in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup in England, with these being Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, the Cook Islands, Tonga and Samoa.

Japan and the Philippines have recently joined the regional governing body, while the APRLC continues to oversee growth in South America too, with Brazil, Chile and Colombia all members.

"This is a very exciting time for our game in the Asia Pacific region and the appointment of Jeremy Edwards acknowledges the opportunities ahead," said APRLC chairman Sandis Tsaka.

"Jeremy brings a wealth of sports experience to the role along with his detailed knowledge of rugby league."

Edwards added further grow would be a target during his tenure.

"It's a vast region and it has great potential for the continued growth of this great game," said Edwards.

"The Confederation will be well represented in this year's World Cup and we have growth areas across the Asia Pacific area.

"The inaugural South American Rugby League Championships are set for Colombia next February which is exciting news."

Edwards added that the APRLC will continue to work closely with the National Rugby League in Australia both on and off the field.