Brian McLaughlin is to step down as coach of Ulster at the end of the 2011-12 season, the Irish province has confirmed.
McLaughlin took over from Matt Williams in 2009 but his position as head coach of Ulster has been in doubt for some time after reports surfaced which suggested his tenure at the club was drawing to a close.
The speculation prompted Ulster to reveal that the contracts of the coaching staff were under review and on Tuesday Director of Rugby David Humphreys confirmed that an new head coach would be appointed for the 2012-13 season.
"While we are not yet in a position to confirm who our Head Coach will be for next season, I can confirm that Brian will remain in a senior coaching position at the club, moving to work with Gary Longwell in our Academy on a permanent basis," Humphreys confirmed.
"Prior to Christmas, Brian and I discussed his coaching position and he was aware that we were considering a number of different coaching options for next season.
"Traditionally, the two week break between the conclusion of the Heineken Cup pool stages and the resumption of the PRO12 has been the time when staff and players who are out of contract at the end of the season, are advised of their contractual position for the following season."
Humphreys went on: "The option of the Academy role offered Brian long-term stability and the security to leave his teaching job in order to coach full time.
"We are aiming to make Ulster Rugby a leading force in European rugby and to do that we need to develop our Academy system and elite player pathway. Brian has a proven record and a genuine interest in this area and this role offers him an opportunity to shape the future of Ulster Rugby. Our youngsters will benefit enormously from his experience."
McLaughlin has guided Ulster to back-to-back quarter-finals in the Heineken Cup and he is looking forward to taking up his new position within the club.
"While I may not be staying on as Head Coach I know that my coaching future lies with Ulster Rugby. We all know the crucial role our overseas players play in our success, but it is imperative we foster local talent in the and my new role within the Academy will ensure that I continue to play a leading role in the development of both Ulster and Irish Rugby," he said.
"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my two and a half seasons at the helm and take huge pride in the success we’ve had, however, with a Heineken Cup quarter-final and a push for a PRO12 playoff spot to come I’m very much focused on leading Ulster for the remainder of this season and am totally committed to achieving our goals of progression in both competitions.”