Paul Deighton is appointed CEO of the London Olympic Games Organising Committee.

The London 2012 authorities have chosen Paul Deighton, chief operating officer of Goldman Sachs’ European businesses, as its new chief executive officer for the London Olympic Games Organising Committee (LOCOG).

Deighton’s selection follows an extensive three month international search for one of the most sought after positions in world sport.

Speaking publicly for the first time following his appointment, Deighton said:

“As a Londoner passionate about sport, I am extremely excited about this opportunity. The Games has an enormous potential to inspire young people. The memories of the Games I listened to and watched in my childhood are some of the most inspirational memories I have.

“To help stage the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, the world’s most important sporting and cultural events, in my home city is a dream come true,” said 49-year-old Deighton, who is married with two children.

“The London 2012 Games represents an unprecedented and unrepeatable opportunity to combine so many of my professional experiences with my love for sport. Few projects or events have the scope or the impact on a city or its communities and citizens like the Olympic Games. I am delighted to be part of it.”

Much of Deighton’s 22 years at Goldman Sachs has been focussed on establishing the firm’s presence and building leading business positions across Europe.