Andy Hunt (centre) has been appointed chief executive of World Sailing

Andy Hunt, former chief executive of the British Olympic Association (BOA), has been appointed to a similar post at World Sailing, it has been announced today.

The 52-year-old, who also served as a non-executive director of London 2012 and was Chef de Mission of the British team during the Olympics, replaces fellow Briton Peter Sowrey, who served just five months in the role, at the Southampton-based world governing body. 

"I am delighted that we have found an outstanding candidate to fill the role of chief executive," said World Sailing President Carlo Croce.

"Andy combines exceptional business leadership credentials, with an excellent track record in sports administration, a deep understanding of the Olympic and Paralympic Movement, strong relationships with the IOC (International Olympic Committee) and ASOIF (Association of Summer Olympic International Federations) and enjoys a lifelong passion for sailing.

"Andy will work closely with me and the Executive Board to continue to deliver on our vision and strategy for World Sailing."

New World Sailing chief executive Andy Hunt pictured with British Prime Minister David Cameron during the London 2012 Olympic Games when he was Chef de Mission of Team GB ©Getty Images
New World Sailing chief executive Andy Hunt pictured with British Prime Minister David Cameron during the London 2012 Olympic Games when he was Chef de Mission of Team GB ©Getty Images

Hunt stepped down from his BOA position in February 2013, taking up a variety of other roles, including as chairman and managing partner of Progressive Media Group, an international media and business information group of companies.

He also served as a non-executive director of England Hockey and Gloucester Rugby.

"I am delighted to have been selected by the Executive Board to lead World Sailing," said Hunt.

"It is a real honour to be able to serve a sport that I have participated in since an early age.

"I look forward to working with all of the stakeholders within our sport to further drive the organisation and sport forward."

Sowrey, formerly the managing director of business process outsourcing and sales for Accenture, was appointed on July 1 last year  by the International Sailing Federation ahead of their rebranding as World Sailing.

He was a replacement for longstanding official Jerome Pels, who had served 17 years in the role.

It was initially said that the Briton had opted to “pursue other challenges suited to his background”,  but Croce subsequently revealed that “doubts” had been raised by the governing body which led to Sowrey's departure.