North Queensland Cowboys have appointed Peter Jourdain as their new chief executive officer.

The Cowboys had a woeful campaign in 2010, finishing the season in 15th spot - ahead of only the Melbourne Storm, who were stripped of all their points for salary cap cheating.

Jourdain will be in charge of rebuilding the club's status after successive dismal seasons on and off the field.

The former Cowboys board member will step down from his post at News Limited and move to Townsville to take up the role.

"Peters appointment is an important step in the boards ongoing review of the entire operations of the Club," North Queensland chairman Lawrence Lancini said on Monday.

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