Sir Robert Smith will guide Glasgow towards the 2014 Games

Sir Robert Smith, a leading businessman, was announced as chair of the 2014 organising company.

Sir Robert, chairman of The Weir Group, said: "I could not be more honoured, or excited to take on the challenge."

He said his overriding priority was to deliver a great Games for the athletes "on time and on budget".

Sir Robert said he would work to ensure the Games make a positive difference to the people of Glasgow.

He said: "Staging the Games in 2014 provides a unique opportunity to stage a major international sports event and to leave a lasting legacy in so many areas of social and economic development in Glasgow and throughout Scotland.

"This is an extraordinary opportunity to demonstrate to the world our ability in Glasgow and Scotland to deliver an outstanding event."

First Minister Alex Salmond said: "Sir Robert will bring a tremendous amount of experience and expertise to this hugely important role."