Deputy electoral commissioner Jeffrey Pope will step up to act in the top job from December, ahead of an impending federal election.
Mr Pope, who has been one of the most senior officials in the Australian Electoral Commission since 2016, will take over from Tom Rogers who plans to retire from December 15.
He will act in the role, though it is unclear whether a selection process will be run ahead of an election expected by May 2025.
"Mr Pope is highly regarded and since 2016 has been the AEC's Deputy Electoral Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer," Special Minister of State Don Farrell said in a statement on Tuesday.
"In these roles, he made significant contribution to the delivery of recent federal elections and the 2023 referendum.
"Mr Pope's experience will ensure consistency and continuity in the conduct of electoral events ahead of the next federal election."
Mr Rogers is leaving the role of Electoral Commissioner after 11 years in the job, and Senator Farrell thanked him for his service across three federal elections and the Voice to Parliament referendum.
"Mr Rogers has managed significant reforms to modernise Australia's electoral system and safeguard the integrity of one of Australia's most respected and trusted institutions," Senator Farrell said.
"[He] leaves a legacy of stable leadership and a stronger democracy."
