Thomson has taken up a six-month contract to be the referee education officer at the Otago union, replacing Sheldon Eden-Whaitiri, who has moved to a position with New Zealand Cricket.
Thomson, a Macraes farmer, is a life member of the Otago Rugby Referees Association and has been involved in officiating the game for many years.
He refereed for many seasons and is now coaching referees, as well as being involved in appointments.
Otago Rugby Football Union general manager Richard Kinley said New Zealand Rugby was reviewing the rugby education officer roles right across the country.
Instead of appointing someone new to a position which may soon change, it was felt better to make a temporary appointment and then wait to see what the national body decided.
Kinley said it was unclear what would come out of the review but someone would still be in charge of getting referees for the game and keeping numbers high.
Thomson was an ideal man for the role as he had a real passion for referees and was well known right round the region, Kinley said.
Kinley said referee numbers were increasing and a good solid band of referees was coming through the system.
