Vic Emery OBE, from Newcastle, died at the scene of the accident near Ecclefechan just after 2.20 pm.
His BMW X3 was the only vehicle involved.
The 77-year-old had played a significant role in shaping policing in Scotland, overseeing the establishment of the single Police Scotland force as chairman of the Scottish Police Services Authority.
He had also been chair of the Civil Nuclear Police Authority and Zero Waste Scotland and had a successful shipbuilding career.
Tweeting her condolences, Nicola Sturgeon said she was “shocked and very sad to hear this terrible news”, adding: “I first got to know Vic when he ran Govan shipyard and since then our paths have crossed regularly through his public sector roles.
“I held him in very high regard and liked him a lot. My deepest condolences go to his loved ones.”
UK Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng also expressed his sadness and tweeted: “As chairman of the Civil Nuclear Police Authority, Vic’s unwavering commitment to public service has left a lasting impression on national security.”
Meanwhile, Mr Emery’s heartbroken family released a statement, it read: “It is with great sadness that
the family announce that Vic Emery, a cherished husband, devoted father and grandfather and respected businessman passed away Saturday, 18th December 2021.
“His wife, Dianne, and daughters, Lucy, Juliet and Victoria and three beloved grandchildren are utterly devastated, their hearts shattered, and request privacy at this time.”
The motorway was closed for ten hours after the crash whilst enquiries were carried out.
Police have appealed for witnesses and are keen to speak to the driver of a white van seen in the area at the time.
Inspector Andrew Thomson said: “Our thoughts are with the family of man who has tragically lost his life. Our enquiries are at an early stage and it is vital that we establish exactly what caused this collision. I would appeal to anyone who driving on this stretch of road and who witnessed the collision to contact us.
“I would be keen to hear from drivers who have dash-cam footage but I am particularly keen to speak with the driver of a white luton style box van which was observed in the area at the time.”
Anyone with any information should contact police via 101, quoting incident number 1992 of Saturday, 18 December, 2021.
A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
