De Vos, 39, currenthly the chief executive of Premiership rugby union champions Sale Sharks will replace David Moorcroft, who officially resigns tomorrow, and will take up his post in May.

He said: "I am thrilled and honoured to have been entrusted with the role of chief executive of UK Athletics."

The appointment may raise eyebrows in the sport following soon after the appointment of Ed Warner to the new post of chairman, as both he and de Vos come from business rather than athletics backgrounds.

Dave Collins, the performance director, also does not have a background in athletics.

De Vos said: "Athletics was my sport as a youngster and has long been a passion of mine.

"When the opportunity arose to apply my business and sports administration skills within UK Athletics, I did not hesitate.

"My task will be to create a climate for success across the entire sport and to ensure that everyone in athletics is empowered and supported to fulfil their ambitions and to secure a vibrant future for the sport.

"At the elite end of the sport, the focus will be on getting our top athletes to the start line in optimum condition to maximise their chances of medal success.

"That means providing them with the best possible environment in which to prepare for major championships, with the best possible support.

"In sport as in business the smallest of margins separates success and failure. Our focus needs to be on the detail that can make a difference both at the performance level and across our organisation."

Warner said:  "He has a fantastic track record of delivering success at the highest level in sport, not just at Sale, but also at Manchester 2002 (Commonwealth Games).

"I have spent a great deal of time with Niels over the past few weeks and I believe he brings energy and drive to the role of chief executive.

"He has valuable experience managing organisations within elite sport. He knows what it takes to operate in a successful environment and to inspire others.

"I am looking forward to working closely with Niels to take UK Athletics and our sport to new heights. I am sure Niels will provide great vision and leadership for UK Athletics."

Sebastian Coe, the chairman of London 2012 and a member of the recruitment panel for de Vos' appointment, said:"This is a crucial time for UK Athletics in the run-up to London 2012.

"Clear leadership is needed at the top of the organisation to ensure that the right support structures are put in place for our athletes.

"Niels has an impressive background in the business of sport and I look forward to hearing his ideas and working with him and Ed Warner in the coming years."

Sale Sharks owner Brian Kennedy had nothing but praise for De Vos.

"Niels has done an exceptional job," he said. "I value his input and he will stay on the board as a non-executive director.

"We have come a long way as a club and we have exciting times ahead. We will start the search for a replacement for Niels immediately."