He replaces Jerome Pels, who resigned last October following 17 years with the Southampton-based ISAF.

Sowrey, who will take up his new role immediately, is the former managing director of business process outsourcing and sales for Accenture.

"Peter has vast experience in business and working at the top level with major companies across the world," said ISAF President Carlo Croce. 

"The decision for the new [chief executive] for ISAF was not taken lightly, and we had some exceptional candidates to choose from.

"Because of the high calibre of applicants, it was an extensive process and now both myself and the Executive Board believe we have the very best person for the job.

"The only thing that rivals Peter's exceptional business know-how is his love for sailing, and this combination of attributes ensures that Peter will lead the organisation forward with distinction.”

Sowrey, awarded the business development leader of the year award in the United Kingdom is 2011, has also previously worked for Ericsson.

As well as global business experience, Sowrey has also given advisory support to the 5 West team and Alex Thomson Racing.

"I am honoured to have been chosen by the Executive to lead ISAF,” he said.

"Sailing has always been a passion for me, and to now combine this with my business knowledge is a great opportunity for me to affect a change and drive the sport and organisation forward.

"To be given the chance is a tremendous honour, and I look forward to the exciting challenge ahead and working with everyone associated to the sailing world.”

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October 2014: ISAF chief executive resigns after 17 years with sailing's world governing body