Mr Walsh said Mr Warne had been appointed to undertake transitional work with the NVIRP board and Goulburn-Murray Water managing director Gavin Hanlon.

"Mr Warne, taking up the role on 9 January, has been appointed until G-MW takes over the delivery of the irrigation modernisation," Mr Walsh said.

"He is a recognised leader in the rural water sector and brings strong change management skills.

"Mr Warne has a record of delivering large and complex construction projects and infrastructure programs both in the commercial sector and in irrigation and water storage infrastructure."

Mr Warne has been general manager of Murray Irrigation as well as the CEO of NSW's rural bulk water delivery business - State Water.

"He has been responsible for change management in both organisations and has experience in dealing with both state and federal governments," Mr Walsh said.

"Mr Warne also brings a genuine understanding of rural communities and customer engagement which will be important in rolling out the new approach to the connections program I have announced today," Mr Walsh said.