Albion’s new ‘signing’ was today given unqualified backing – by one of the top administrators in the English game.

Former Arsenal and Football Association vice-chairman David Dein believes the Seagulls have sent out a clear statement of intent by hiring Paul Barber as chief executive.

Barber, whose CV includes key roles at the FA and Spurs, starts work on June 18 as Albion prepare for their second season of Championship football at The Amex.

Dein worked with Barber at the FA and told The Argus: “Brighton are very lucky to have him because wherever he goes he is a very high quality individual.

“He is a guy at the height of his profession and that shows the ambition of the club to employ him.”

Barber, 45, was commercial director at the FA, executive director of Spurs and, latterly, spent two years as chief executive at Vancouver Whitecaps.

Dein believes his cool head under pressure will serve Albion well.

He added: “Paul is very qualified and very experienced at the job. He has vast experience in football and in commerce and is very knowledgeable.

“He is very calm under pressure, which you need to be.

“I think he is a good decision maker. He is very forward thinking and progressive and that goes with the club because they are very progressive and ambitious.”