Trump names Kellyanne Conway White House counsellor

Donald Trump on Wednesday named his campaign manager Kellyanne Conway, credited with crafting much of the strategy that carried him to last month's shock election victory, to the post of counsellor to the president.

Conway, who since the election has been playing a leading role advising Trump as he prepares to enter the White House, will continue as a close advisor after he is sworn in next month, a transition team statement said.

"Kellyanne Conway has been a trusted advisor and strategist who played a crucial role in my victory," Trump said in the statement.

"She is a tireless and tenacious advocate of my agenda and has amazing insights on how to effectively communicate our message," he said.

Conway, 49, the first woman campaign manager of either major political party to win a presidential general election, said she was "humbled and honored" to be named to the position.

"I want to thank the president-elect for this amazing opportunity," said Conway, who prior to her work with Trump was a political pollster and consultant specialising in targeting women voters.

"A Trump presidency will bring real change to Washington and to Americans across this great nation."