Broadcasting Minister Jonathan Coleman announced the appointment this week.
Mr McRobie was general manager of the Radio Network in Christchurch for more than a decade.
"Ross' extensive knowledge of radio, business management and his wider business interests will add a useful perspective to the board," Dr Coleman said.
Mr McRobie is owner and director of United Travel, acting general manager of Snow Sports New Zealand and chairman of the Lake Wanaka Tourism and Wanaka Wastebusters boards, and a member of The Red Bus Company board. He was appointed to the Otago Community Trust this year.
Mr McRobie said he was "excited" about his new post.
"It's quite relevant to me because of my broadcasting background. I've got about 26 years in radio broadcasting," he said.
NZ On Air provided "a very, very good opportunity for local television and radio productions to be produced that otherwise perhaps wouldn't be able to be produced", he said.
