Armitt was formerly chief executive of Network Rail, a position he has held since October 2002. He is a civil engineer by training and was previously chief executive of Costain Group and Union Railways.
 
Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell said: "I am confident that under John's leadership, the ODA will ensure that London 2012 will be remembered not only for fantastic sport, but also inspiring venues, a legacy of world class sporting facilities, and the regeneration of one of the most deprived areas of the UK.
 
Armitt said: "The ODA has a critical part to play in delivering the venues and infrastructure, not just for the Games but for generations to come. It has made a very good start to this hugely challenging project and I look forward to providing leadership as the programme now moves to the next stage."