Dickson joins the trade body from French turbine manufacturer Alstom, where he had been vice president for global public affairs since October 2014.
He joined Alstom in 2008 as director of government relations in Europe and then became vice president of environmental policies and global advocacy.
British-born Dickson previously worked as a civil servant for the UK government, with postings at the British embassy in Madrid and as a counsellor for the UK permanent representation to the European Union in Brussels. As counsellor, he was involved in the UK's negotiations with the EU on environment and social policy.
"Wind is central to delivering the goals of the EU Energy Union. The ongoing discussions on electricity markets, the governance of further renewables expansion and the reform of the ETS are key to ensuring the wind industry can play its part," Dickson said.
Dickson replaces Thomas Becker, who stood down from the association in March after two years in the role, citing personal reasons.
Malgosia Bartosik, who has been in place as an interim CEO, will return to her role as deputy CEO.
