London 2012 announces new Chief Executive Officer

Deighton's selection follows an extensive 3 month international search for one of the most sought after positions in world sport.

Speaking publicly for the first time following his appointment, Deighton said: "As a Londoner passionate about sport, I am extremely excited about this opportunity.

"The Games has an enormous potential to inspire young people.

"The memories of the Games I listened to and watched in my childhood are some of the most inspirational memories I have.

"To help stage the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, the world's most important sporting and cultural events, in my home city is a dream come true," said 49-year-old Deighton, who is married with two children.

"The London 2012 Games represents an unprecedented and unrepeatable opportunity to combine so many of my professional experiences with my love for sport.

LOCOG Chair Sebastian Coe said: "We selected Paul because of his experience in leading large international organisations and projects and his track record of managing and growing large teams of people in complex and diverse environments.

"He is the right person to lead the London Olympic Games Organising Committee on its mission to produce an outstanding Olympic Games for the athletes and youth of the world in 2012."

19 December 2005