Bob Keiller, who is due to stand down as boss of Aberdeen-based Wood Group at the end of this year, will succeed Crawford Gillies at the helm of the economic development agency from 1 January.
The appointment is on a part-time basis and runs for three years. It attracts a remuneration of £514 per day for a time commitment of one-and-a-half days per week.
Keiller said: “Scotland needs a vibrant and inclusive economy and Scottish Enterprise has a catalytic part to play in achieving this.”