This is a board-level appointment reporting to Arqiva CEO John Cresswell.
Brearley was HR and property director at Vodafone UK until December 2010 when he decided to take a career break to pursue charity interests.
During his seven years at Vodafone he led people and property strategies as the company went through a period of significant change. Before that he held senior HR roles in Marks & Spencer and Kingfisher Group.
Brearley said: " Arqiva is entering a new era in a spirit of innovation and growth. Developing and implementing the necessary people strategies will be essential to realise the full potential of a highly skilled workforce and achieve the company's ambitions. I have a clear focus on creating a positive culture and a strong organisation, so this is a challenge I relish."
John Cresswell, Arqiva CEO, added: "Matthew's depth of blue-chip, multi-sector HR experience and engineering background is just what we need at this time. I know he will be very effective in helping to stimulate and develop our people. The new title 'People and Organisation' has been specifically chosen to reflect the nature and focus of this role."
Arqiva employs over 2000 permanent members of staff located mainly throughout the UK, but with operations also in Ireland, mainland Europe and the USA.
