The deputy chief executive of Glasgow 2014 has stepped down to pursue a new role overseas, Games organisers have announced.

Ty Speer joined the organising committee in November 2012 and led the commercial programme for this summer's event.

Chief executive David Grevemberg said: "Ty has led a successful commercial programme and his knowledge and experience have been great assets to the organising committee.

"Glasgow 2014 will be a world-class sporting and cultural celebration and it's our ambition to make them the greatest Games the Commonwealth has ever staged.

"I thank Ty for his contribution to the organising committee and, on behalf of the winning Glasgow 2014 team, wish him every success for the future."

Earlier this month, Games chiefs dropped plans to demolish Glasgow's Red Road tower blocks as part of the opening ceremony after the announcement prompted thousands of complaints.

Atlanta-born Mr Speer was director of client services at London 2012 and before that worked in a commercial role for the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.

He said: "It's clear from the commitment shown both from businesses and the public that Glasgow 2014 is generating real excitement and creating fantastic opportunities around showcasing world-class sport from Glasgow and Scotland on the global stage.

"I'm delighted to have led a commercial programme which has exceeded £100 million in revenues, which is a real vote of confidence in the ability of the city and Scotland to put on a great Games.

"David, the OC team and all partners are focused on ensuring a memorable sports festival experience for all and it's been a real privilege to be part of a great team that I know will deliver an outstanding Commonwealth Games."

Mr Speer will step down next week, 12 weeks before Celtic Park hosts the Games opening ceremony on July 23.

Demand for tickets has been high, with more than 90% sold during their initial four-week release.

Games chiefs faced criticism after revealing they planned to demolish five city tower blocks live as part of the opener to the Games.

It was meant to commemorate part of Glasgow's social history and represent the city's regeneration, but more than 17,000 people signed a petition opposing the move on the grounds it was insensitive to former residents and the asylum seekers who continue to inhabit a sixth block.

A Glasgow 2014 spokesman said it will not be necessary to appoint a successor to Mr Speer.

He said: "As the planning phase for his areas of responsibilities is now finalised and much of the work on the commercial and ticketing programmes complete, his executive responsibilities can be distributed amongst the other members of the executive team."