Michel Masson has been appointed  the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of Infrastructure Victoria in Australia.

Welcoming Mr Masson on behalf of the board, Infrastructure Victoria Chairman Jim Miller said Mr Masson's knowledge and leadership would be invaluable to Infrastructure Victoria. He said:

"We are delighted to secure a CEO with Mr Masson's Australian and international experience and capability. Mr Masson has extensive experience in leadership roles in the transport and infrastructure sectors, along with an ability to work with the public and private sectors and the community," Mr Miller said.

He will play a key role in establishing Infrastructure Victoria as a trusted, independent, expert adviser on infrastructure matters. The board looks forward to working with him to develop Victoria's infrastructure priorities."

Mr Masson brings more than 20 years' experience in senior transport and infrastructure roles in Europe and Australia including as CEO of Keolis Downer and Yarra Trams. Mr Masson currently leads Calibre Group's transport infrastructure and services division. He is a graduate of the Harvard Business School (AMP), the EDHEC Business School in France and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Infrastructure Victoria was established under legislation in September 2015 and aboard was appointed in October. In addition to delivering a 30-year infrastructure strategy, Infrastructure Victoria will also provide independent advice to the Government when requested and publish research on infrastructure matters.

Mr Masson said he was delighted to be joining Infrastructure Victoria. Mr Masson said:

"This is a unique opportunity to provide a considered and consultative approach to infrastructure planning in Victoria. I look forward to working with stakeholders and the community as we develop the strategy and work to build consensus about Victoria's infrastructure needs for the future."

Mr Masson will start in his new role on 1 February 2016.