Northern Ireland has begun the search for its Birmingham 2022 Chef de Mission ©Getty Images

The Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Council (NICGC) has called for expressions of interest as they seek to appoint a Chef de Mission for Birmingham 2022.

A deadline of February 7 has been set for applications before an initial "paper sift".

This will be followed by panel interviews, if necessary.

"The successful candidate must ensure that they are available to meet the requirements necessary to fulfil the role, including all necessary dates in the build up to the Birmingham Commonwealth Games," the NICGC said. 

"The successful candidate will be expected to lead on the wider planning processes to ensure that an efficient system of team management can be implemented at the Games. 

Gymnast Rhys McClenaghan won Northern Ireland's only gold medal at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images
Gymnast Rhys McClenaghan won Northern Ireland's only gold medal at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

"The post is not just a Games time role."

Former international shooter Robert McVeigh has been Northern Ireland's Chef de Mission for the last three Commonwealth Games, Delhi 2010, Glasgow 2014 and Gold Coast 2018.

Gymnast Rhys McClenaghan was the country's sole gold medallist in Gold Coast, winning the men's pommel horse title.