Wesfarmers managing director and former Fremantle Football Club board member Richard Goyder is set to become the next chairman of the AFL Commission.

Goyder, a Fremantle board member from 2006 to September 2011 and current  AFL Commissioner, will take over from Mike Fitzpatrick, who announced on Wednesday that he was stepping down from the role after 10 years as chairman.

Goyder is due to start his tenure as chairman on 4 April.

Fremantle president Dale Alcock said it was an outstanding appointment.

“Richard’s business expertise, negotiating skills and temperament are ideal attributes for the new chairman of the nation’s number one sporting code,” Alcock said.

“He is very passionate about football and has a great love and understanding of the game.

“The experience and knowledge Richard has gained running one of Australia’s largest listed companies and biggest private employers will be integral to his success in the new role.”