Connacht have named Andy Friend as new head coach on a three-year deal.
The province announced on Thursday that the Australian will arrive in late June to take training for the new season.
The 49-year-old will replace Kieran Keane. The New Zealander's term at the Sportsground came to a premature end following a disappointing season.
Friend's most recent job was as head coach of the Australian Sevens team. Previously, he coached Harlequins for three seasons in the mid-2000s. He has also coached the Brumbies and in Japan for four seasons.
Internationally, he worked under Eddie Jones from 2002 - 2003 when the current England boss was Wallabies head coach. Friend also took the Australian U21 team to the final of the 2005 World Championships.
"I am extremely excited and honoured to be appointed as Head Coach of Connacht Rugby," said Friend.
"Connacht is a proud province with huge potential to build on the success of recent seasons. I look forward to meeting the players, staff, supporters and wider community when I arrive in the Sportsground ahead of the new season."
