He replaces DJ Mackovets who stood down, the Birmingham 2021 Board of Directors confirmed.

For the last 16 years, Sellers has served in a variety of leadership positions with Alabama Power and Southern Company, most recently as vice-president of the mobile division at Alabama Power. 

His previous roles with the organisation also include vice-president of business origination, senior vice-president of projection development and construction, and vice-president of external and regulatory affairs.

Sellers also brings a background in sports and event operations through his work as director of operations for the Alabama Sports Foundation, where he was responsible for sponsorships, ticketing, and operations plans for large-scale events such as the SEC Baseball Tournament, Arby’s Hardwood Classic Invitational, and Regions Charity Classic.

"We are delighted to welcome Nick as our new CEO," said Jonathan Porter, chairman of Birmingham 2021 Board of Directors. 

"He is a highly-respected executive with demonstrated success in strategic leadership, operations, and implementation. 

"He is well-positioned to lead The World Games 2021 over the next 19 months as we continue our positive momentum toward delivering a world-class event that showcases Birmingham to visitors from around the globe.

"The Board and I also would like to express our gratitude to DJ Mackovets for his service to The World Games 2021 Birmingham during a critical time for this event. 

"His vision, commitment and experience were instrumental in laying a strong foundation for the Birmingham Organising Committee."

A native of Birmingham and graduate of the University of the Pacific in Stockton in California, Sellers also holds his Juris Doctor from the Birmingham School of Law. 

Currently, he is the chairman of the Alabama Sports Council, where he works to oversee all Alabama Sports Council events including the Magic City Classic and the Davis Cup Tennis Invitational. 

Sellers also serves on the Bryant Jordan Scholarship Foundation, the Mobile Industrial Development Board, the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, and Innovation Portal.

"Honoured and grateful are the two words that capture my feelings," said Sellers.

"We have a unique opportunity to present Birmingham and the state of Alabama to the world; so, our mission will be to deliver the best and most innovative competitor, spectator, and sponsor experience in the history of The World Games."

The World Games are scheduled to take place in Birmingham from July 15 until July 21. 

It will mark the first time since 1981 that the 10-day event will take place in the United States.

About 3,600 athletes from 100 countries are expected to compete in 30 sports at various venues throughout the city.

"I’ve always believed in Birmingham and have confidence that we will come together in a way in which we’ve never done before," said Sellers.

"Through the collaboration and leadership of the Birmingham Organising Committee, city of Birmingham and International World Games Association, I’m convinced that the stars are aligned for us. 

"This is our time. 

"I’m ready to get to work."