English Partnerships chief David Higgins has been appointed chief executive of the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), the body tasked with building key venues, facilities and infrastructure for the 2012 Games.
The announcement comes four days after Jack Lemley, the 70-year-old engineer behind the Channel Tunnel, was appointed chair of the ODA.
Olympics minister Tessa Jowell introduced the two men at a press conference held at her offices in Central London.
She described them as “two of the best people there are to do one of the most difficult jobs.”
She added: “They will oversee what I am reliably informed is the biggest construction project in Europe – the development of the delivery of the Olympic Park.
“They both bring a formidable range of skills and experience to these respective roles.
“Jack masterminded the construction of the Channel Tunnel – as big a project as you can imagine.
“Dave Higgins brings to this challenge a wealth of experience from the private sector.”
Mr Higgins takes up his new post full time in the New Year.
He joined English Partnerships, the Government’s national regeneration agency, in March 2003 having previously been managing director and chief executive of the Lend Lease Group.
The company’s developments included the Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent, Europe’s largest retail and leisure complex.
Mr Higgins said: “I am delighted to take on the role as chief executive of the ODA. Delivering the Games is a unique opportunity for the entire country.
“My job is all about delivering these facilities for the world’s greatest sporting event in 2012 and assuring a lasting legacy for east London, the rest of the capital and the whole of the UK.”
References: EGi News 22/11/05
