Former Ireland skills coach Brian McLaughlin will succeed Matt Williams as Ulster coach in a restructured management team unveiled by the province today. The former head of rugby at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution will be assisted by Jeremy Davidson and Peter Sharp (forwards) and Neil Doak (backs).

Former Ulster and Ireland outhalf David Humphreys will fill the role of Operations Director and will be responsible for the senior team, the Ulster Ravens (formerly Ulster A), the Ulster under-20s and the High Performance/Academy structure.

He will report to the chief executive Michael Reid.

"Having played at the very highest level and having worked with a number of top coaches, David's knowledge of the Professional Game will be invaluable in ensuring Ulster are properly and professionally prepared for Magners League and Heineken Cup action" said Reid today.

"The development of our young players, succession planning and the provision of appropriate playing facilities are key to Ulster's future success.

"I'd also like to take this opportunity to welcome Brian to the team. A proud Ulsterman himself, and with his knowledge of our players and the skills he has gained throughout his coaching career to date, I am confident that we have the right man to lead us forward on the field."

Davidson returned to the Ulster set-up last year after training as coach at Castres Olympique under former French full-back Ugo Mola.

The vastly experience former Ireland and Lions lock will bring particular expertise to lineout preparation, while Australian Sharp, with his rugby league experience, will focus mainly on the defensive aspect of the forwards’ play.

The 37-year-old Doak played 76 times for Ulster as scrumhalf before retirement in 2005.

As well as coaching the backs, he is expected to stay on as the academy coach.