Cooper is presently group finance director of William Hill and was group finance director of Bovis from 2007 until 2010.
He will join Barratt when he has fulfilled his contractual obligations to his existing employer at a date to be confirmed.
Existing finance boss and Barratt chief executive (Designate) David Thomas said: “Neil has a strong CFO track record as well as a good knowledge of the house building sector.
“He has been a key part of shaping the direction of Bovis Homes and William Hill and is an exceptional appointment for Barratt; I am confident that he will add real value to our business.”