Cleverly is Conservative London Assembly member for Bexley and Bromley and honorary vice-president of Bromley District Scout Council and a former Major in the Territorial Army.
His appointment follows the resignation last year of the Mayor's deputy mayor for young people, Ray Lewis, following allegations of inappropriate conduct. But, unlike Lewis, Cleverly will not be paid and will not have the same powers.
Joanne McCartney, Labour London Assembly member and chair of the scrutiny panel that examined the Mayor's youth violence strategy, Time for Action, said she feared that responsibility for young people had been downgraded.
"Lewis had executive status. It is still unclear what role James will have," she said. "I hope that having an ambassador doesn't mean youth issues are falling down the Mayor's agenda. James is a very affable and enthusiastic young man and I hope that is put to good use."
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