Coe shakes up London 2012 leadership to gain edge over rival cities

Lord Coe, who took over as chair of the London 2012 bid team from Barbara Cassani at the end of May, has announced a restructuring of the Olympic bid leadership to place more emphasis on international relations.

The bid’s vice chairs have each been given new, individual remits: Cassani will be responsible for the technical aspects of the bid, including the Candidature File, which must be submitted to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in November; Charles Allen, chair of the bid’s Nations and Regions Support Group, will also support the bid’s work with the UK government and business sector; while Alan Pascoe will focus on the legacy of the Games, ensuring all the facilities built will have a lasting benefit for sport. Pascoe will also continue to support the UK marketing of the bid.

Sir Robin Wales, chair of the Association of London Government and Mayor of Newham – the borough where the Olympic Park will be built – and London 2012 finance director, Neil Wood, will both join the London 2012 bid board, while Sport England chair, Patrick Carter, who already sits on the board, will chair a new Legacy Board.

Chief executive officer, Keith Mills, will work on international relations with Lord Coe and a new team will be established to oversee the international work. Andrew Craig, formerly a senior adviser on international relations will become vice president, International.

Finally, Mike Lee, director of communications and public affairs, will become advisor to the chairman.

Lord Coe said: “I believe these changes will help give us the cutting edge to spearhead a winning bid.

“Now we are in the second crucial phase of our bid, as an official Candidate City, it is essential that all aspects of our plans come together in an exciting and winning way.”