She was the national vice president for three-years and had been the national councillor for Bay of Plenty/Coromandel for eight years.
Kerry Maw, the Rural Women national councillor for Canterbury, was named vice president.
The new roles were announced at the organisation’s AGM held in Wellington on November 25, attended by 80 members.
McGowan would take a leading role in plans to celebrate the UN International Year of Family Farming in 2014.
The organisation is planning a series of events in March and April around the country to highlight the important role of family farms in provincial economic prosperity.
As national president she would also lead the group in their role of advocacy in land, health, education and community issues.
The group also helps rural women outside New Zealand.
McGowan said she would also try to strengthen links and understanding between rural and urban kiwis.
Prime Minister John Key also spoke at the AGM and highlighted the different issues that rural communities faced.
He cited broadband access, the volatility of weather that farmers must cope with and schooling in rural areas as key challenges.
The annual meeting was opened by Rural Women patron Lady Janine Mateparae.
