Sharman, who has been out of the industry since leaving Sky in November 2003, has a strong sports background, having been deputy managing director of Sky Sports and, in 1998, controller of sport at Channel 4. He was also an editor for ITV Sport in the 1970s.
Sharman added: "I have many happy memories of working for ITV Sport. It will be a privilege to lead the team into a new era."
Nigel Pickard, director of programmes for ITV, said: "Mark has a phenomenal track record, not just in sports broadcasting but across the industry. He will be a great ambassador for ITV sports and a very valuable addition to the network."
Barwick, who has spent seven years with ITV, is to replace Mark Palios as chief executive of the FA on January 31, following the scandal over Palios' affair with Faria Alam, a secretary at the association.
ITV Sport currently holds the rights to the Uefa Champions League, the Championship football highlights, the Rugby World Cup, Tour de France, Oxford v Cambridge Boat Race, the US Super Bowl and Formula 1 motor racing.
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