Telstra Corporation has appointed a senior executive from within its ranks as chairman of pay-TV provider Foxtel.

Robert Nason, Telstra’s group managing director of business service and improvement, will replace retiring Foxtel chairman Bruce Akhurst, Telstra said in a statement on Friday.

Mr Nason already sits on the Foxtel board and the vacancy created by his elevation to chairman will be filled by Telstra group managing director for innovation, products and marketing Kate McKenzie, the company said.

Telstra owns 50 per cent of Foxtel and has the right to appoint the chairman.

News Corporation and Consolidated Media Holdings each own 25 per cent of Foxtel.

The changes will take place on June 1, 2012, Telstra said.