Scott-Marshall joins the organisation from the Royal Institute of British Architects, where she was head of external affairs and where she worked for seven years.

Her appointment completes the BPA’s executive team for Rio 2016.

She will also take on the role of deputy secretary general during the Paralympic Games and will work closely with BPA chief executive Tim Hollingsworth and chairman Tim Reddish.

Scott-Marshall will be tasked with taking the lead on communications, domestic stakeholder engagement and international relations within the organisation and claimed she cannot wait to “build on the seismic success of London 2012”.

She added: “I’m thrilled to be joining the BPA at such an exciting time.

“To build upon the seismic success of London 2012 is a huge challenge.

“Working with partners to increase the profile and influence of the Paralympic Movement is something I feel passionately about, as do many across the country having been inspired by 2012.”

The appointment of Scott-Marshall in the newly-formed role, created as part of a reshuffle within the BPA, has also been hailed by Hollingsworth, who claimed the role is an important one for his organisation.

“This is a really important new role for the BPA at a critical time and I am really pleased to have someone of Anna’s calibre and experience to drive it forward,” he said.

“The amazing platform that London 2012 gave the BPA both in the UK and internationally is one we know we must build on with our partners to drive our profile, maximise the opportunity to influence decisions and assist the Movement with positive change. 

“We had excellent candidates apply and, although with no background in sport, Anna really impressed the panel with her insight, strategic positioning and passion for the role.

"I cannot wait for her to start, and to complete the process of recruitment with just over a year to go to our next Summer Games.”

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