Dominic Gardiner-Hill will replace Phil Smith as the British Horseracing Authority's head of handicapping from May.
Gardiner-Hill has been deputy head of handicapping for the BHA for 11 years and is approaching 25 years of service with the sport's regulator.
Smith will retire this spring after spending 22 years with the governing body.
Gardiner-Hill, 53, said: " I am absolutely delighted to have been given the chance to do one of the biggest jobs in world handicapping and lead such a talented and dedicated team. I have big boots to fill but it's a challenge I am going to relish.
"I'd like to pay tribute to Phil who has been not only a fine head of handicapping, but has also become a close friend during our time working together. I will miss his calm manner and wise advice and wish him all the very best for his well-earned retirement."
Smith said: " I am so pleased that Dominic has been announced as my successor as BHA head of handicapping.
"Dominic has been a handicapper, professional and private, for nearly 30 years and he has the respect of the team and also BHA stakeholders.
"He is approachable, honest, caring, accurate and thorough, all of the qualities that should be valued in modern handicapping."