The 32-year-old, who is also part of the FIH "Road to Rio" Olympic umpire programme and took charge of the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympics hockey final, will begin work at the national governing body in January.

He joins Scottish Hockey, which is now gearing up for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games on home turf, from drinks firm Diageo, where he began work as a graduate trainee in 2005 before progressing to his current role of business leader.

"I am delighted to be appointed as the new chief executive officer of Scottish Hockey at such an important and exciting time for the sport," Sweetman said.

"I have been part of the hockey community in Scotland for many years as a player, coach, umpire and North District President.

"I am very much looking forward to the challenge of leading the organisation from 2014, when we will have the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and beyond."

Scotland's hockey squads are currently preparing for the Glasgow 2014
Commonwealth Games on home soil


Scottish Hockey chair Scott Baird was delighted to "welcome David to the Scottish Hockey family".

"We are excited about this appointment and we look forward to him leading the organisation from 2014," he said.

"This is a fantastic time to be involved in hockey with Glasgow 2014 on the horizon and ensuring as an organisation we are fit for purpose and developing the sport beyond 2014.

"We are sure David will bring great value, business skills and acumen to the role.

"His knowledge and experience of hockey at a national, European and World level will also be great assets to utilise."

The FIH also sent its congratulations to Sweetman in a statement on its website.

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