Former Prime Minister John Key has a new employer.

Mr Key will become a director on the Board of Air New Zealand beginning September 1.

Chairman Tony Carter says Key fits the bill of someone with strong international business experience and a deep knowledge of tourism.

"When John Key announced he was stepping down as Prime Minister and moving to a new phase of life outside of politics, it became a priority for the Board to try to secure his services as a Director," he says.

"John will bring extensive international commercial experience, outstanding leadership skills, global perspective and a keen understanding of the tourism sector gained during the years he was Tourism Minister as well as Prime Minister of New Zealand."

Mr Key says he is delighted to accept the position with New Zealand's national carrier.

"Air New Zealand is an incredible company that has significant opportunities ahead of it and I look forward to working with the Board, Chief Executive Officer and his Executive team to see it fulfil its potential," Mr Key says.

John Key stepped down as Prime Minister in December 2016 and had been quiet on his future plans but did say he was considering a number of options from around the world.

Air New Zealand's longest serving Director Paul Bingham will retire in September at the Annual Shareholders' Meeting.

Newshub.