Hille, 24, has played 89 senior games for Essendon since making his debut in 2001.
Matthew Lloyd – who remains Club captain - said Hille had matured significantly as a player in the past 18 months and he was only too happy to endorse him as acting captain for the remainder of the season.
""David is developing very quickly as a leader on and off the field,"" Essendon captain Matthew Lloyd said.
""When we lost to Adelaide by 88 points last year he took a stand immediately after the game and spoke with real conviction to the playing group - it wasn’t prompted at all and it was at that moment that I recognised his leadership qualities.
""He has the total respect of players and staff at the club and I have no doubt he will thrive in this role.""
Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy said Hille’s appointment was made with an eye to the future.
""It would have been easy to give the job to James Hird or one of the boys in their mid-to-late 20s but the reality is that they may not be here when Matthew Lloyd finishes in the role. Why not take the opportunity to have a look at where your next leader might come from,"" Sheedy said.
""David Hille is a member of our leadership group and this is a great opportunity for him to show what he can give us as an on-field leader – not many players get that opportunity so early in their careers.""
