Walker, well known in the UK for his string of high level appointments, among them chairman of the UK Sports Council, creator of the UK Sports Institute and chairman of the English Sports Council, will take up his new role immediately.
He was also chairman of the Manchester 2002 Commonwealth Games and chairman of the Wembley National Stadium.
Said Walker: “I am looking forward to the challenge. I first met with World Snooker two years ago to offer my advice and now I am delighted to have been appointed chairman.
“I am impressed by the unity and determination of the board members and the new mandate given to the board in November 2002 has become a strong base from which we can go forward.
"We are lucky to have the support of BBC TV and BSkyB. We have more TV coverage in the UK than any other sport with the exception of football and that is a strength which we can exploit as we look for commercial partners.
"Together with my fellow directors we will build on the restoration of the sport's reputation, strengthen the sport in this country and seek out opportunities around the world.”
