McCracken, who was the technical delegate for the men’s hockey tournament at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, will officially take up the post in February.

The former Olympic and World Cup umpire, who has also worked in executive roles across global banking, insurance and financial organisations in New Zealand, Australia and India, replaces South African Kelly Fairweather, who is due to stand down in December and was recently chosen as chief executive of the International Tennis Federation.

FIH director of sport and development David Luckes will hold the position on an interim basis during the transition period between Fairweather’s departure and McCracken beginning in his new role.

McCracken’s appointment was made following an extensive recruitment process and both FIH President Leandro Negre, who will not seek re-election at the worldwide governing body’s Congress in Dubai next month, and the Executive Board are said to be delighted the New Zealander has been selected for a key position at the organisation.

"This is a unique opportunity to combine my commercial skills with my passion and love of the game," McCracken said.

"I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead the organisation and work with our Continental Federations, National Associations, commercial partners, the International Olympic Committee, along with the talented FIH team and many hockey friends from all over the world.

"It is an incredibly exciting time for the FIH, with the Hockey Revolution transforming the sport.

"With the new event portfolio to be implemented over the coming years this is certainly a challenge that I am looking forward to.

"As hockey’s new chief executive, I will be leading by example as we aim to make hockey a global game that inspires the next generation."

McCracken’s appointment comes amid an overhaul of the administrative roles within the FIH, with a new President due to be elected at the Congress on November 12.

Australia’s Ken Read, India’s Narinder Batra and Ireland’s David Balbirnie are the three candidates attempting to succeed Spaniard Negre as head of the governing body.

"Our 10-year Hockey Revolution strategy is already having a significant impact on the sport, but with the new event portfolio due to be implemented over the next couple of years, it is going to be a very important period in hockey’s history," Negre said.

"We’re confident Jason can drive forward our ambition through this strategy and we look forward to seeing him shape the sport’s exciting future."