Michael Kearney has been appointed as the new manager of the Ireland rugby team, replacing Paul McNaughton.
The former Lansdowne player, who was forced to quit the game through injury at the age of 24, has previously managed the Ireland U20 side, guiding them to the RBS 6Nations title in 2010.
He will join up with the Ireland squad next week in their Limerick camp as preparations begin for the start of the Six Nations next month.
Commenting on Kearney's appointment, IRFU chief executive Philip Browne said: "Michael has a proven record over the last 30 years in rugby, but also as an independent business man of a particularly high standing.
"The role is one which requires a certain amount of experience and understanding of how the rugby environment operates in Ireland, but also with regards to representative teams and how they work."
Kearney said: "I am obviously delighted to take up the position as well as honoured to be involved with the team.
"My focus now is to get up to speed as soon as possible and give whatever support is necessary to Declan (Kidney), the coaches and players as we head into the championship."