CANADIAN Keith Pelley has been named as the new chief executive of the European Tour, succeeding George O'Grady.
O'Grady announced in November that he would be stepping down from his role but would continue until a permanent successor was found.
Pelley, 51, will replace him from this summer, with O'Grady moving into the position of president of international relations.
Pelley said: "I am very honoured to be joining the European Tour as its new CEO at an exciting stage in its development. The tour already has a highly regarded reputation and I look forward to building on this using my previous experience in both media and sports.
"Throughout my career in North America, it has been a privilege to work with the best sports organisations, athletes, and media assets. I am excited to build on these experiences on the international stage."
Pelley is the president of Rogers Media and was involved in the Canadian organisation's rights deal to cover the National Hockey League.
He held the same role with Canada's Olympic Broadcast Media Consortium for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and was CEO of the Canadian Football League's Toronto Argonauts from 2003 to 2007.
David Williams, Chairman of The European Tour commented: "Keith's proven track record, extensive experience and outstanding leadership skills in both sport and media will be invaluable as we continue to further develop our strategy.
"On behalf of the board I would again like to thank George O'Grady for his extraordinary contribution to the European Tour and professional golf over the last 40 years."
O'Grady added: "I look forward to welcoming Keith to the European Tour and ensuring a smooth transition as I continue to develop my new role. I am certain that Keith will bring a fresh and business-focused perspective to the tour."
A five-handicap golfer, Pelley is a member of Ontario's Lambton Golf and Country Club and Goodwood Golf Club.
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