She will take up her post tomorrow to replace Tim Wilson.

Her appointment is being hailed as the start of a new era for the national governing body following the election of new President Les Pereira in January.

After starting her career as a journalist, Van Bruggen has spent the last 17 years as founding President and chief executive of Victoria-based public relations and engagement firm Acumen Communications Group.

She is also an experienced triathlete who has been competing in competitions for the last 30 years.

"I know and understand the challenges Triathlon Canada has ahead, but I also know I have the energy, drive and skillset to make a positive contribution and build an organisation of team, integrity and at its core, excellence," she said. 

"In order to inspire excellence, we need to show organisational excellence. 

"If we live by these core principles in all that we do, we will achieve our goals, and ultimately celebrate more medal-winning performances for Canada in all race disciplines."

One of Van Bruggen’s main priorities will be on creating a "sound organisational structure in an effort to deliver the tools and resources athletes, coaches and staff require to achieve their objectives".

"Kim is a dynamic, passionate, decisive and pragmatic leader who is a proven performer in the world of business and sport," said Pereira.

"She stands out on the basis of her unique mix of experiences, leadership qualities and profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our sport."

Canadian Simon Whitfield became the first men's Olympic champion in Sydney 2000 after the event was added to the programme.

Whitfield also won a silver medal at Beijing 2008 but the best Canadian performance at Rio 2016 was 15th place for Tyler Mislawchuk in the men's competition.