Australian Brett Clothier has been appointed as the first head of the independent integrity unit for world track and field.
Clothier had previously led the AFL's integrity unit for more than eight years and spent time as legal counsel to the integrity services department of Racing Victoria.
"Athletics is one of the few genuinely global sports," Clothier said in a statement.
"Through the AIU (Athletics Integrity Unit) it has an unparalleled opportunity to demonstrate leadership on integrity issues and to share those with other sports and federations."
International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) president Sebastian Coe paid tribute to Clothier in announcing his appointment.
"Brett's experience will be a huge asset to the AIU in safeguarding our sport's ethical credibility," said Coe.
Clothier will start his role before the world athletics championships in London in August.
The AIU has assumed responsibility for the management of all aspects of the anti-doping program, taking over from the IAAF's former anti-doping department.
It will also oversee other integrity-related programs including issues such as bribery and corruption, betting, the manipulation of competition results, age manipulation and misconduct around transfers of allegiance.
The AFL will now begin its search to replace Clothier.
"Brett's appointment as the inaugural head of the new independent athletics body is a reflection of the respect he has across national and international sport," said AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan.
"Brett was instrumental in establishing and leading the AFL's integrity unit, and he leaves the AFL in a strong position to continue to fight against doping and other integrity issues."
