Prominent Kiwi businessman Chris Liddell could be the steady hand that Donald Trump's administration needs.

The 58-year-old from Matamata has been announced as an assistant to President Trump and Director of Strategic Initiatives.

READ MORE: Kiwi businessman Chris Liddell appointed as Donald Trump's assistant

Liddell's appointment was announced along with that of Reed Cordish, who will be an Assistant to the President for Intragovernmental and Technology Initiatives.

"Chris Liddell and Reed Cordish have led large, complex companies in the private sector, and have played instrumental roles throughout the transition," said President-elect Trump.

"Their skill sets are exactly what is needed to effect substantial change, including system wide improvement to the performance of the government. I am delighted that they will be part of my executive team."

Mr Liddell has had a distinguished international business career, including roles as chief financial officer at General Motors to Microsoft. He also worked with Mitt Romney in his 2012 Presidential campaign.

He is currently the chairman of accounting software firm Xero. Its chief executive, Rod Drury, said Mr Liddell has been doing a lot of philanthropic work in New Zealand, which shows the sort of person he is.

Mr Drury said having him in the White House will be a very positive thing.

"It seems to be a really interesting special projects role, so he'll be able to get involved with a whole lot of things and has what looks like a strong team who will be able to go and make a whole lot of things happen," he said.

He said it's very exciting Mr Liddell got the job, despite what people may think of Trump's politics.

"Having someone there who actively networks and spends time back here and is very familiar and connected with the New Zealand political and business and philanthropic scene, it can only be good. So we're incredibly proud of Chris."

Mr Drury said Xero is awaiting direction from the White House on whether Mr Liddell can remain on with them.

Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope said Mr Liddell's experience speaks for itself.

"He's a very senior and experienced global businessman," he said. " So I think he's a great appointment to move into a policy role."

Mr Hope said the position is very powerful, and it's fortunate a New Zealander will be there. He said we have a strong relationship with the US, and it's important that continues.

"We wouldn't want some negative policies to slow that down. I think having a New Zealander and a New Zealand perspective in there is a real advantage for us."