Bracknell Forest Council chief executive Susan Halliwell has been appointed to the same position at the new West Surrey Council.
The new unitary is due to be established in April 2027 through local government reorganisation in the county.
Ms Halliwell has been chief at Bracknell Forest – which is one of the Berkshire unitaries – since October 2022. She was previously a place director for West Berkshire Council and before that for Oxfordshire CC.
Ms Halliwell said getting the job was a “privilege” and added: “I look forward to working closely with councillors, colleagues and partners to build a council that listens to its communities, embraces innovation and puts residents at the heart of every decision.
“Together, we can create a trusted organisation that serves West Surrey well for generations to come.”
Paul Follows (Lib Dem) leader of the West Surrey shadow authority, said: “We are ambitious for West Surrey and want to deliver excellent services, listen to residents and help our communities thrive.
“I am looking forward to working closely with her as we build a new council that delivers high-quality services, strengthens local communities and provides strong, accountable leadership across West Surrey.”
The shadow authority has already appointed Adam Chalmers as the chief for East Surrey Council.