Connacht have announced that Australian Andy Friend is the province's new head coach, replacing Kieran Keane.
Friend joins the province on a three-year contract and will arrive at the Sportsground next month, in preparation for the new season.
The 49-year-old brings a host of experience with him to Connacht, having previously coached English side Harlequins, the Brumbies and the Australian 7s.
Friend comes in to replace Keane who lasted just one season at the Sportsground after the 2016/17 Pro12 Champions won just 7 games this campaign.
The new head coach is eager to hit the ground running and said: "I am extremely excited and honoured to be appointed as Head Coach of Connacht Rugby. 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."
Meanwhile CEO of Connacht Rugby Willie Ruane believes his side have pulled off something of a coup in landing Friend and said: "We are delighted to announce Andy Friend as the new Head Coach of Connacht Rugby.
"Andy has a wealth of experience at international and club level and shares our ambition for Connacht Rugby over the coming seasons. He will arrive in the Sportsground at the end of June and will oversee the preseason training plan ahead of the 2018/19 season."
