He is currently non-executive chairman of Goldshield Group, a marketing-led, British pharmaceutical and consumer health company, which he joined in May 2006.

He has more than 11 years' experience in private sector management serving as a non-executive chairman or director of a number of diverse companies.

Sports Direct International acting chairman Simon Bentley said: "I am very pleased that Keith has agreed to join us and look forward to working closely with him.

"He brings with him a wealth of experience at the highest levels of both public and private sectors and will make a major contribution to the development of the company."

Story provided by Business Financial Newswire