The new appointment will work closely with performance director Dave Brailsford (pictured top), who has committed himself to British Cycling for the next four years, and chief executive Ian Drake to create a structure that will sustain the success enjoyed over the last two Olympic cycles for 2020 and beyond.

The programme director will, in conjunction with Brailsford, be responsible for the operational delivery of the Great Britain Cycling Team's podium, podium potential and talent programmes.

"After British Cycling's greatest year, in which we saw a first winner of the Tour de France, world-leading results at the Olympics and Paralympics and rising levels of participation, it was important we looked at how the organisation can continue to set a high standard for sport in the UK," Drake said.

"British Cycling is extremely fortunate to have individuals of Dave's calibre, he has played a major role in the transformation of the sport in this country and I am thrilled he will continue his work.

"But we need to ensure there is a lasting legacy which will see Britain continue on its journey to becoming a cycling nation.

"No-one here underestimates the challenge but, by acting now, we are giving ourselves the best possible chance of success.

"The programmes director will already be a high-achiever in sport and I look forward to the recruitment process."

Brailsford added: "I am delighted to confirm my commitment to British Cycling and I look forward to implementing our plans for Rio 2016.

"I wholeheartedly endorse the decision to recruit a programmes director.

"The successes we have achieved come from a continuous search for improvement and, while 2012 has been very good for cycling in the UK, I am determined that there is even better ahead."

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