Former world squash champion Dame Susan Devoy has been named the new Race Relations Commissioner.
Dame Susan will begin a five-year term in April, replacing Joris de Bres who has served two terms.
The Justice Ministry advertised for a candidate twice before appointing Dame Susan.
Justice Minister Judith Collins said Dame Susan would bring sound governance experience and mature judgement to the role.
"Her communication and relationship management skills, coupled with experience working with diverse groups, are key areas of strength. I am confident she will be a sensible and intelligent voice for race relations issues.
Dame Susan is a former member and chairwoman of the Halberg Trust.
She served as a board member of the Auckland District Health Board from 2000-2003, is a trustee of Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust and the chairwoman of the BNZ partners in the Bay of Plenty.
The commission is an independent Crown entity which works with government and civil society to promote respect for human rights, encourage harmonious race relations and equal employment opportunities, and to resolve complaints about discrimination and related issues.