Former Paralympic swimmer Gowans served as classification manager for the London 2012 Organising Committee, and was tasked with leading a 40-member team responsible for classification at the Games, as well as developing, implementing and managing the programme for the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

"Classification is the foundation stone of Paralympic sport and it is important that both BPA and the sports get our processes and management of classification absolutely right," said BPA director of sport Penny Briscoe on the appointment.

"We want to ensure we have been as thorough as possible in managing the classification process, ensuring robust classification for new talent entering the system supporting our ambition to reduce re-classification and potential appeals at Games time.

"In Iain, we have an expert who can support the sports and the BPA in this core area."

The role will see Gowans work in collaboration with National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and other stakeholders to develop classification processes and programmes to ensure a coordinated programme of education and support for athletes and the people working with them.

He will also work with NGBs to identify, recruit and train classifiers, and to develop a network and database of classification experts to support NGBs and staff around classification issues.

Gowans will also lead on advising talent programmes and initiatives on classification matters in order to ensure that athletes are reaching their potential.

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