He will take over from Chris Gorringe after this year's Wimbledon championships.
Ritchie, 51, is currently in charge of Associated Press television news and is a non-executive director of the Football League.
He began his association with television and media organisations in 1980 when he joined Granada and later became head of production services. In 1996 he joined Channel 5 as chief executive and oversaw the start-up and ultimately successful application for a licence.
It is thought his television experience will be invaluable for the All England Club, with revenue from worldwide sales having dipped in recent years.
