Ascot Construction Chief to join Olympic Delivery Authority

David Higgins, Chief Executive of the ODA said: "Howard's work at Ascot has been rightly praised as showcasing British construction at its best - first class facilities delivered to time and to budget. His experience will be invaluable in helping to deliver the infrastructure and venues for London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as ensure we leave a lasting legacy."

Howard Shiplee said: "It is a great privilege and challenge to be offered this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help deliver the London Games, and I am greatly looking forward to getting down to business at the ODA."

Mr Shiplee will develop, lead and manage construction contracts, budgets and timelines for the new permanent facilities across all venues and the temporary relocatable arenas. He will also be responsible for developing the ODA's role as an 'intelligent client', which will include construction inspections, workmanship standards, and best practice on site.

He has worked on a substantial number of complex, high profile construction projects and was formerly a Director of High Point Rendel, a specialist construction consultancy. He will join the ODA in September 2006.

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Notes to Editors

The Olympic Delivery Authority is a statutory corporation set up under the London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games Act 2006.

Photographs of Howard Shiplee are available on request.

Media Enquiries:

Contact the Olympic Delivery Authority Press Office on 020 3 2012 700