He joins ITV from Telefonica Digital, where he was group HR director.
Linares played a key role in the design and formation of Telefonica Digital, which was created in 2011 to develop and drive opportunities for the telecoms giant in the digital world.
Adam Crozier, chief executive of ITV, said: "Simon brings with him a wealth of skills and experience in major organisational change, leadership and development."
Linares will join ITV's management board when he starts his role on 7 October.
Linares was replaced as HR director of Telefonica Digital by Marta Machicot.
