He has been appointed as deputy to current chairman Jason Frost, managing director of Publicis Blueprint, until the changeover in June 2007.
King said: "The APA is currently experiencing rapid growth and has recently expanded with the appointment of Patrick Fuller to CEO. I am looking forward to building on this and Jason Frost's legacy.
"My vision is to drive forward the positioning of the APA, particularly focusing on digital issues and branded content, while growing new business."
Julia Hutchison, chief operating officer of the APA, said: "Sean's experience in the industry speaks for itself and I am extremely confident that he will pick up where Jason leaves off in June."
Square One joined the APA in 2000 and King has chaired the association's events committee for the past two years.
Following a career in fashion and entertainment journalism, King co-founded Square One in 1994. The company has achieved a turnover of £7.5m and has a client roster including Churchill Insurance, Gala Bingo and Marks & Spencer.
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