Matt Williams was formally named as the Scotland coach in Durban today, succeeding Ian McGeechan after the World Cup.
The 44-year-old enjoyed a successful four-year spell at Leinster, leading the province to the Celtic League title in 2001-2002 and guiding them to the European Cup semi-finals last season.
Williams, who explained the lure of international management was the clincher when deciding to leave Donnybrook, will take up the job following the World Cup finals in his native Australia later this year on a contract till 2007.
Speaking from South Africa, where Scotland are preparing for the first of their two Tests against the Springboks on Saturday, Williams said his appointment was a humbling experience.
"Firstly I would say that I'm honoured to be given the opportunity to coach one of the great sides in world rugby in competitions of the status of the rugby World Cup and the RBS Six Nations championship," the former New South Wales coach explained.
"I was very happy at Leinster and the IRFU has treated me brilliantly but the lure of being Scotland coach was, for me, irresistible. To follow in the footsteps of Jim (Telfer) and Ian is a very humbling experience and I'm very aware of the responsibilities that have been given to me.
"My aim will be to build on the foundations that have been put in place by Jim and Ian. Great strides have been made in the last four years in Scottish rugby and my role will be to take the structure forward in all areas."
McGeechan, who led Scotland to Five Nations Grand Slam success in 1990 in his first spell as coach and then the British and Irish Lions to two series victories over Australia and South Africa, takes over from Telfer as Scottish director of rugby after the World Cup.
Scotland rarely shone under McGeechan in his second spell in charge and had a disappointing Six Nations campaign, going down to record defeats by both Ireland and France.
Current Scotland rugby union director Jim Telfer said: "When we announced last December that we would be seeking a new head coach to follow on from Ian who will fill my shoes as director of rugby on my retirement, we pledged to conduct a worldwide search to find Ian's successor.
"In Matt Williams we have found an outstanding young coach who I am sure will prove an exceptional custodian of all the values that are dear to Scottish rugby while also bringing innovation and plenty of ideas to the national team."