Established 60 years ago, WorldSkills International is a non profit organisation that promotes vocational education and training in countries across the world.

Mr Bartley, who will remain CEO of UK Skills until the completion of the WorldSkills London 2011 event, was elected to the role after serving three years as a Board Director of WorldSkills International.

There are currently 53 member countries within WorldSkills International, most of which take part in the WorldSkills competitions.

In his new role, Mr Bartley will oversee the admission of new member countries, work with representatives from around the world, and ensure the quality of future WorldSkills competitions.

"The work undertaken by WorldSkills International is vital in allowing countries and regions from around the world to develop more effective ways of training," he said.

"Indeed, it is knowledge of training at the highest quality that is needed to grow individuals, careers and develop and sustain businesses."

In his current role as CEO of UK Skills, Mr Bartley is ultimately responsible for selecting the group of young people that will represent the UK at WorldSkills.

The competition -which will involve around 1000 young people, aged 18-25, from 45 countries or regions, who will compete to become the best of the best in their chosen skill - will be watched by around 150,000 people.

Mr Bartley continued: "WorldSkills London 2011 will provide a real opportunity to engage international communities on the importance of effective skills and training in the current economic climate."

Mark Astley