The LYG, which every year attracts 20,000 competitors to more than 40 competitions has benefited from substantial long term investment from both Sport England and Balfour Beatty in the build-up to London 2012 and is now looking to expand their capacity across London.

 

Findlay will leave his current and join The LYG in the autumn to work closely with the current board, the London Boroughs and the delivery partners to continue the development of one of the most successful youth events in Europe.

 

Findlay said: "I am pleased to be joining The LYG at such an exciting time in its development with new sponsorship from Balfour Beatty and funding agreements.

 

"My aim is to build on the thirty years of heritage of the Games to ensure that The LYG is best positioned to make the 2012 games sporting legacy a reality."

 

Anthony Kendall, the chairman of The LYG said the appointment of Russell is a critical hire with London 2012 approaching.

 

He said: “The next four to five years will be very important for the Games.

 

"The appointment of Russell is an essential first step to ensure they become even more important to London and help deliver greater participation and performance.

 

"Russell comes with great experience and has an exciting vision for the Games.”

 

Leigh Hine from Sports Recruitment International who managed the appointment on behalf of The LYG, said: “We received applications from a wide range of skill sets and sectors, many of whom were happy to take a reduced salary to be part of building the Games.

"The final shortlist offered the panel several options as to what they felt was the most appropriate direction, and I personally am delighted with Russell’s appointment."