Current AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou will officially end his 11-year tenure and hand over the reins to his deputy on 5 June.
Rosich said it came as no surprise that McLachlan, who has been at the AFL since 2000, was chosen to take over.
“He’s been in the industry a long time,” he said.
“We have a great relationship with Gillon and he is very deserving of this opportunity.”
Rosich said the AFL’s decision to choose from within its own ranks would allow for a smooth transition.
“To have someone who’s been in the industry for so long is a strong positive,” he said.
“His industry experience will certainly help him and the industry.”
The Freo CEO said McLachlan’s strengths included negotiation, which was a key aspect of the role.
He added the 40-year-old father of three’s strong appreciation of the AFL clubs would also be important.
“Notwithstanding, he hasn’t worked directly within an AFL club, he has worked closely with AFL clubs for a long period of time,” Rosich said.
“I think that’s very much a positive for the 18-team competition.”
Among the topics that will be high on Fremantle’s agenda in McLachlan’s reign is the new Perth Stadium.
Rosich said McLachlan has been a key figure in those discussions to date, and he hoped that would continue.
“He’ll be a busier man now, (but) we see his involvement with that as integral to football’s position in the new Perth Stadium,” he said.
