UK Athletics decided to split the role into long and short sprints, noting that both candidates had specialist expertise in their respective areas.

Both roles are part-time, but offer full-time coverage.

These appointments were made in a bid to have higher levels of engagement between athletes and coaches and to provide support to an athlete's individual plan.

Campbell and Benjamin will liaise close with UK Athletics' World Class Programme, helping to support the development and transition of sprinters on the verge of making the programme.

Both will play a role in preparing relay teams and sprinters for Tokyo 2020. 

"These are great appointments for the sport," said Olympic head coach Christian Malcolm, a former team-mate of both Campbell and Benjamin. 

"Darren and Tim bring a wealth of experience to the roles following their successful careers in and out of the sport.

"I am pleased to bring them into the team as we continue to support athletes and coaches to achieve their goals during 2021 and beyond."

Benjamin was part of the British team to win silver at the 2003 World Indoor Championships in Birmingham in the 4x400m relay, later adding another silver medal in the discipline at the 2006 European Championships.

He was forced to retire early in 2009 at the age of 27 due to a number of injuries.

"I am delighted to be offered this role alongside Darren," said the 38-year-old Benjamin.

"I've remained a big fan of athletics throughout my retirement and had always wanted an opportunity to give back to my sport.

"I've had 11 years in the commercial world yet my heart has always been here.

"I had a great competitive career and have worked with world class coaches such as Jock Anderson, Tony Lester, Colin Jackson and Linford Christie.

"I've been exposed to so many differing approaches and I've also made my fair share of errors as an athlete which means I can bring this insight and experience to help support the athletes and coaches I work with in this role."

Campbell was part of the famous 4x100m relay team who won Olympic gold against favourites United States in 2004.

He is also a European individual champion and world bronze medallist.

"I felt like it was the right time to get involved with the sport again," said Campbell, who is now 47. 

"I'm excited by the new leadership and the new direction it's headed in by putting the athlete first.

"I've had experience across the board competing, coaching, mentoring and mediating and understand what the athletes and their coaches will be looking for.

"When I was competing, I don't feel we always got what we needed, and support wasn't offered properly.

"I know I can bring that experience and help to ensure athletes have what they need to be successful."