Moller, formerly deputy CEO of dairy produce firm Fonterra, was chosen ahead of acting chief executive Steve Tew who will continue to work at NZRFU under the newcomer.
Commented NZRFU chairman Jock Hobbs: "Chris is a leading and highly respected New Zealand chief executive. He will bring seasoned leadership, strong strategic skills and considerable business and commercial acumen to the role.
"Chris does not have a background in rugby other than as a supporter and viewer of the game. He is, however, passionate about the sport and New Zealand and recognises the important part rugby plays in the country."
Following the loss earlier in the year of the joint host status for next year's Rugby World Cup - now to be held solely in Australia - after rows over the sharing of commercial revenue, many of the previous NZRFU management team resigned including former chief executive David Rutherford.
Moller will now be entrusted with revitalising the NZRFU after a year that the governing body will want to forget.
The New Zealand Rugby Football Union (NZRFU) has looked outside of rugby circles in appointing Chris Moller as its new chief executive.
