Former police oversight commissioner Al Hutchinson has been appointed to succeed Nuala O'Loan as police ombudsman, the Northern Ireland Secretary has said.
Peter Hain said the government was pleased to have secured his services.
Prior to his appointment as oversight commissioner in 2004, Mr Hutchinson served in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for nearly 34 years.
"Nuala O'Loan has done an outstanding job in establishing a reputation for rigour and independence and has set a template for the future," Mr Hain said. "This appointment was made after a rigorous selection process which adhered to public appointment guidelines.
"I am impressed by the strong public record and extensive knowledge of policing issues in Northern Ireland that he [Mr Hutchinson] will bring to the post."
Mr Hutchison (59) is expected to take over from Mrs O'Loan in November.
