Forestry Tasmania's Steve Whiteley has been made chief executive of the embattled government logging business.
Mr Whiteley, who was previously FT's chief operating officer, has been acting CEO since Bob Gordon departed in May.
Chairman Bob Annells said Mr Whiteley had beaten interstate candidates for the top job.
"Mr Whiteley's combination of experience and personal qualities made him the best candidate to lead FT through the extremely challenging times ahead," he said.
FT has posted multimillion dollar losses in recent years as Tasmania's forestry sector has declined.
Following the historic peace agreement between the timber industry and environmentalists, the enterprise is seeking the tick of approval from the Forest Stewardship Council, an international non-government organisation that certifies sustainable forestry practice.
"FT has been through an extraordinarily difficult period and, while many of the uncertainties have now been resolved, the challenges remaining are substantial and varied and will require a particularly deft hand," Mr Annells said.
"Steve Whiteley has demonstrated admirable leadership qualities through the (peace) process and has gained wide respect from both industry and environmental leaders."
Mr Whiteley joined FT in 1985, when he was employed as a forester.
Mr Gordon left by mutual agreement after six years at the helm.
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