Former Queensland Rugby Union chief executive and respected sports administrator Terry Doyle has died, aged 65.

A life member of the Queensland Rugby Union after serving as its CEO from 1980-'96, Doyle revolutionised sporting administration with his influence, not only shaping rugby but stretching to its competitor codes.

He was a driving force behind the advent of the southern hemisphere's international provincial competition, now known as Super Rugby.

Regarded as avisionary during his 16-year tenure at the state's governing body, armed with bright marketing strategies to raise rugby's profile, Doyle hailed from a background in education when he had become Queensland's youngest high school headmaster during a nine-year stint working as a teacher before his time in rugby.

An old boy of St Joseph's College, Gregory Terrace, he pursued a career in sports management following his tenure at the QRU and maintained strong ties to the game through his involvement at the grass-roots level until his death.

Queensland Rugby Chairman Rod McCall said he and all of the Queensland rugby community were deeply saddened.

"Terry was innovative in the ways he marketed the game of rugby and his passion and drive meant Queensland rugby was able to capitalise on the success we had on the field during his time there," McCall said.

"Without his efforts, rugby would certainly not have the large scale we enjoy in the Queensland sporting landscape today.

"I am sure that Terry would have thoroughly enjoyed the Reds' successful season this year, seeing Queensland rugby back on top again as it was so often during his tenure."

Doyle was hospitalised with a cardiac-related illness two weeks ago and passed away on Monday night.

Funeral arrangements will be advised later in the week.

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