The board said it was pleased to receive a strong list of candidates from throughout NewZealand for the role.
Chairman Bernie McKone said Steve had great strategic planning skills, had experience working throughout the region with sporting organisations, community groups and facility development projects and brought strong leadership skills to the to the organisation.
"We are looking forward to his involvement with Rugby Southland as we continue to return pride to the Southland organisation and building the game including the women’s game."
Mitchell, who will take up the position on April 13 , had 30 years in sport management, operations and facility development from club, regional and national levels.
Over the past seven years with the Tasman Rugby Union, he has worked in rugby development, referee development and was the union’s operational manager for the Nelson All Blacks test match in 2018.
"Acting General Manager Simon Frisby has done a superb job in the interim, and we are pleased to have filled several key positions to the organisation including referee development officer Dermot Hughes, women’s development officer Georgia Mason, and community manager Ross McCauley," Mr McKone said.
Frisby will continue in his acting general manager role until Mitchell’s arrival.
