King will replace Nat Solomon, who has been acting chairman since David Evans' retirement in 2013.
Richard King joined Grass Roots as a non-executive director in January 2013. In the last year has played a key role in the responsibilities associated with board decisions, including the appointment of chief executive Richard Bandell.
King has a varied portfolio of board appointments, as well as a long-standing career with Ernst & Young, becoming managing partner UK & Ireland in 2006, and deputy managing partner across the global business in 2009.
King said: "After a year of significant change within the Grass Roots Group, the company is now well placed to take advantage of its scale and market-leading position. I very much look forward to overseeing the next stage of its development. We have a strong executive team in place and I am eager to be a part of the exciting plans for future growth."
Grass Roots chief executive Bandell said: "Our sincere thanks to Nat Solomon for carrying out the role of acting chairman over the last year. We are delighted that he will continue as a non-executive director alongside David Evans, David Hackett and the non-executive representatives from our major shareholder, WPP.
"We also welcome Richard King’s appointment. His involvement and expertise have made a very positive impact over the last 12 months, and I look forward to continuing the excellent working relationship that Richard has fostered between the executive leadership team and the group board."
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