John Loughlin is to replace Craig Greenlees as chairman of Zespri Group Ltd.
Mr Greenlees is stepping down after six years in the role and will continue as a director of Zespri Group and G6 Kiwi Ltd.
Mr Loughlin is a well known businessman based in the Hawke's Bay. He is a former chief executive of Richmond Ltd and a former director of Tranz Rail.
It was a good time for an independent director to take over the chairmanship at a time of industry consolidation, particularly in the post-harvest sector, Mr Greenlees said.
Mr Loughlin acknowledged that he was an industry outsider.
"I am looking forward to meeting with employees today, and growers during the two-week roadshow starting on Monday, to outline the particular perspective I will bring as chairman, being initially from outside the kiwifruit industry.
Mr Loughlin said the board was continuing the process of appointing a permanent chief executive following the resignation of Tony Nowell in June.