Bill Sweeney, head of business development for German sports equipment giant PUMA, has been confirmed as the next chief executive officer of the British Olympic Association (BOA).

Sweeney has a strong background as a business executive in the sports equipment sector, but hasn't previously worked for a sports governing body or association.

He replaces Andy Hunt, who stepped down earlier this year, in the role.

Sweeney will take up the position in November and will be responsible for directing the day-to-day activities of the British Olympic Association, including overseeing preparations for the Sochi 2014 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games, the inaugural European Games in 2015, and the many other international, multi-sport events in which Team GB will compete.

Lord Sebastian Coe, BOA chair, said: "We had a number of outstanding candidates but Bill?s business and sport experience, and his impressive record in developing global sports brands, makes him the right choice for this role.

"Bill has worked in the Olympic environment and he understands the needs of athletes who compete at the highest levels of international sport. Through his leadership positions at adidas, he has a clear understanding of Team GB and our values."