In taking on the role, the former international showjumper becomes the first female performance manager in British equestrian sport and one of just a few on the international circuit.

She replaces Rob Hoekstra, who stepped down last month after serving in the role since 2010, and will be responsible for the structuring, managing and coaching provision for the senior British jumping squad, with the aim of delivering podium finishes at championship level.

"I feel proud and honoured to be appointed as the jumping performance manager within the world class programme," Lampard said.

"I want to ignite the fire and passion of London 2012 to achieve success, our immediate goal being qualification for Rio in 2016.

"We will only do this with a no compromise approach and by creating a strong team spirit through open communication and transparency with riders, owners and support staff.

"Meanwhile we will look to support the world class development programme athletes, giving these young riders the opportunities to integrate into the experience of the Team GBR squad.

"We will look to contribute a wider foundation of new horses and involve a larger pool of owners in developing the all-important horsepower we need to achieve success.

"Rob [Hoekstra] has left the position in great shape having seen British showjumping through one of their most successful periods and I am delighted to take over the reins."

Rob Hoekstra stepped down last month after serving in the role since 2010 ©Getty Images


As well as working with jumping's youth teams since 1996, Lampard has considerable experience of top level competition herself, having been standing leading lady rider for eight years and representing Great Britain in two World Equestrian Games, two European Championships and some 50 Nations Cup Teams.

She, with husband Dietmar Ackermann, has also developed an equestrian facility at Spring Farm in Rutland and Leicestershire into a centre of excellence for coaching and the development of young horses over the last 30 years.

"The European Championships this summer will provide the final opportunity for the jumping team to achieve Olympic qualification for the 2016 [Rio] Games," world class performance director Dan Hughes said.

"It was therefore essential we found a new performance manager as quickly as possible to provide a smooth transition.

"Di's credentials as a showjumping rider, coach, selector and Chef d'Equipe, coupled with her extensive knowledge of the sport, made a compelling case.

"Her reputation is second to none and her attitude and approach make her exactly the right person for the job.

"We know she'll be able to hit the ground running and focus quickly on the immediate challenges of Olympic qualification and achieving podium places for Team GBR in 2016.

"I warmly congratulate her on her appointment and welcome her to Team GBR and the world class fold with open arms."

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