Notholt, who takes up the post on 18 November, replaces Judith Bernard who left in September to become Leonard Cheshire director of comms.
Notholt will oversee all media relations and public affairs work, leading a 34-strong team that also covers publications and a range of the charity's support schemes, including the Autism Helpline and the Volunteer Network.
Work he will oversee includes media relations for the charity's Christmas concert, featuring performances by among others Joanna Lumley and Simon Callow.
Notholt, who is V-P of the Chartered Institute of Journalists, will also oversee the charity's annual Autism Awareness Week, which takes place next May.
The FSA has yet to name a replacement for Notholt.
