Former IAG CEO Michael Hawker has joined the board of the Macquarie Group as an independent non-executive director.

Now based in London, Mr Hawker will undertake regular travel to attend Macquarie board meetings in Australia.

“Michael’s appointment will represent an important addition to the skill base of our board,” Macquarie Chairman David Clarke said.

Mr Hawker was CEO of IAG from 2001 until 2008, when he resigned citing the loss of shareholder confidence.

His latest appointment takes the Macquarie board membership to nine, including seven non-executive directors.

Mr Hawker is also a director of British insurer Aviva and the Australian Rugby Union.