Ord became Glasgow 2014 chief operating officer in October last year following his work on London 2012, where he was responsible for the delivery and readiness of broadcast facilities, infrastructure and operations for the Olympic Host Broadcaster.

The role had previously been vacant since September 2011, when former incumbent David Grevemberg was promoted from the position to chief executive to replace John Scott, who resigned from the top job after he admitted to breaking rules over accepting gifts and hospitality from a potential supplier.

Glasgow 2014 state that Ord "left by mutual agreement and within his probationary period" as Leather comes in to help plan the final stages of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Leather served as finance director and deputy chief executive Manchester 2002, the last time the UK staged the Commonwealth Games in what proved one of the most successful editions of the competition to date.

Leather also played a key role in setting up the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) for London 2012 and joins Glasgow 2014 on secondment from Organising Committee sponsor Ernst & Young, where he has been a partner since 2005.

"I am delighted that someone of David's calibre and unrivalled reputation is joining the Glasgow 2014 team at this vital operational stage in our journey to delivering an outstanding multi-sports Games," said Grevemberg.

"We look forward immensely to having him as part of a team which is committed to ensuring the Commonwealth Games are a success story for Glasgow, Scotland and the Commonwealth."

Grevemberg also paid tribute to Ord.


"I thank Ralph for his contribution to the delivery of the Games," he said.

"As the Games are now entering a vital operational phase it is essential that we progress with a cohesive and consolidated team in place as we continue to work towards delivery of an outstanding Commonwealth Games for Glasgow and Scotland."

Leather claimed he is delighted to get the opportunity to work on Glasgow 2014 with just over a year to go to the start of the event.

"Glasgow 2014 offers a unique opportunity for me to invest my energies and experience in delivering an outstanding Commonwealth Games," he said.

"I'm proud of what we achieved at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester in 2002 and I'm delighted to be part of what I know will be a truly memorable event in Scotland."

Ord has also given his best wishes to the Organising Committee following his resignation.

"The delivery of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games is gaining momentum every day and I have been impressed by the passion and professionalism of a team committed to the delivery of an outstanding Games," he said.

"I wish David and the team every success in the task ahead and I have every confidence Glasgow and Scotland's Games will be an excellent experience for athletes, spectators and viewers across the world."

Glasgow 2014 is due to take place from July 23 to August 3.

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October 2011: Glasgow 2014 appoints Ord as new chief operating officer