The former WRU Board member was nominated by the WRU after standing down from his position with the Union, which he had held since 2005, in October.
The WRU Board voted unanimously to support the nomination of the former Wales and British and Irish Lions star who was the sole candidate considered for the role.
“Gerald is a widely respected servant of our national game and he will bring the same expertise, dedication and enthusiasm to this new role at the helm of the PRO12 Board as he did to the board of the WRU,” said WRU chief executive Roger Lewis.
“Whilst Gerald was our only candidate for the role it is with great pride that we are now able to formally confirm his appointment to this important position.
“A strong PRO12 is a vital part of the future of Welsh rugby, it is a breeding ground for our talent and it allows our players to hone their skills against some of the very best club sides in the world game.
“I’m sure Gerald will relish the challenge of picking up the good work already done by his predecessor Andy Irvine, who also deserves recognition for what he has achieved so far.”
Andy Irvine steps down on completion of his three year term of office to be replaced by the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour manager.
Gerald Davies won 46 caps for Wales, winning three Grand Slams, and represented the British and Irish Lions on tours in 1968 and 1971.
After the 2009 tour to South Africa he became Chairman of the British and Irish Lions, a position which he held until 2014.
“It is an honour to be appointed Chairman of the PRO12”, said Davies. “The Guinness PRO12 is going from strength to strength on and off the field with both TV audience and attendance increasing steadily year on year. 119 internationals from the Guinness PRO12 represented their countries in the Autumn Internationals showcasing the depth and quality of our competition”.
John Feehan, Chief Executive of Pro12 Rugby, said: “It is a privilege to have Gerald Davies as our Chairman, his understanding of rugby is exceptional. Gerald embodies the rugby ethos and tradition while at the same time having extensive experience in the governance of our sport. I would like, on behalf of the Board, to thank Andy Irvine for his years of service as Chairman of the PRO12.”
