The BBC director general, Mark Thompson, said: "London 2012 is one of the biggest events in the UK to be held in our lifetimes and requires all our focus and energy.

"Now is the right time to take this important step in the BBC's planning for this momentous year.

"I witnessed first hand in Beijing what is required to successfully deliver such a major broadcasting event, and we all saw the outstanding coverage by the BBC.

"I believe Roger Mosey is ideally placed to fulfill such a challenging and important new role."

Mosey, who will step down as director of sport once a replacement has been appointed, oversaw the BBC's hugely successful coverage of the Beijing Games last month.

In his new role, as well as dealing with the BBC's own preparations for 2012, he will also lead the BBC's relationship with external bodies such as London 2012.

Mosey said: "I am delighted to be taking up this exciting new role and new challenge which will allow us to build on the success of Beijing and deliver something even bigger and better for London.

"I believe there's a fantastic opportunity to bring the whole of the BBC together - globally, nationally and locally - to provide an unforgettable sporting and cultural experience for our audiences."

Mosey believes the Games - which will coincide with the switchover to digital TV - will be as pivotal for British TV as the Coronation was 50 years ago, with the BBC hoping to show every event live.

Mosey, 50, has been director of sport since August 2005, one of a number of high-profile roles within the BBC.

He has also has been tge editor of Radio 4's Today programme, controller of BBC Radio 5 Live and head of BBC television news.

In his new role, he will report to the deputy director general, Mark Byford, who is chairman of the BBC-wide London 2012 steering group.

Byford said: "The scale of the planning involved for London 2012 means it's right we appoint a full-time coordinating director now and Roger will be a pivotal player in ensuring the BBC provides well-coordinated, outstanding and innovative content."

Meanwhile, BBC Sport's head of events, Dave Gordon, who co-ordinated the Beijing coverage, has also been confirmed in the role for the London Games.