He will replace Lord Adonis, who resigned from the position at the end of last year.
Having served as a Commissioner since the NIC was established in 2015 and last year being appointed Deputy Chair, Sir John Armitt has a background in engineering and expertise in infrastructure and major project delivery.
He has served in a number of roles concerning UK infrastructure including the Chief Executive of Network Rail, President of the Institution of Civil Engineers and Chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority.
In 1996, he was awarded a CBE for his contribution to the rail industry and a knighthood in 2012 for his work in engineering and construction.
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Announcing the appointment, Chancellor Philip Hammond said: "Boosting productivity is essential to sustaining real wage growth. And investing in infrastructure is one of the keys to raising our productivity performance.
"The National Infrastructure Commission's expertise is vital for ensuring the UK's infrastructure is fit for the future. Sir John Armitt brings years of experience of UK infrastructure. With him at the helm, I am confident we will develop a strategic and ambitious infrastructure plan that supports economic growth for decades to come."
Sir John Armitt said: "I'm delighted to have been appointed as the Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission as we prepare for the publication of our first National Infrastructure Assessment later this year.
"Making the right choices about planning and investing in infrastructure is critical to the UK's prosperity and quality of life. I want the Commission to remain focused on tackling the long-term issues of congestion, capacity and carbon – and to continue to hold the government to account where decisive action is needed – so we can secure the improvements that companies, communities and families need.
"I look forward to working with my fellow Commissioners and listening to our stakeholders as we set out the way forward for the UK's infrastructure."
(LM)
