Burrows will join Asciano after 25 years’ finance experience in a diverse range of industries, including property, financial services, IT services, professional services and manufacturing.

He is currently the chief financial officer of Perpetual Limited, having held that role since March 2008.

Prior to that, Burrows spent 20 years with the Lend Lease Group, including a period as group CFO from 2004-07.

Burrows’ experience as CFO includes responsibility for the overall finance function, including strategy, business planning, investment and capital management, treasury, investor relations, risk, audit and IT.

He has also recently been appointed as a member of the Australian Government’s Financial Reporting Council (FRC), nominated by the CFO peak body, G100.

Asciano managing director John Mullen said: “Having taken the time to consider a broad range of candidates and find the person who truly fits our business and our culture, it is pleasing to announce this appointment.

“I know that Roger will be a strong addition to our senior leadership team and will provide valuable leadership to the finance team across Asciano.”

Based in Sydney, Burrows will be joining Asciano in early 2013.