Bath have brought in Gary Gold as the head of their new coaching staff for the 2012-13 season, with Toby Booth leaving his post as head coach at London Irish to work under him.
London Irish academy coach Neal Hatley will also be moving to the Recreation Ground, with former England coach Mike Ford - who worked with Gold in his most recent role at Newcastle - also joining the backroom team.
Gold, who spent four years as assistant coach of the South African national team, said: "I'm really looking forward to coming on board at Bath.
"It's a very ambitious club, with a great array of talent within the squad that I'm excited to be working with. There is a good culture developing here, and I'm keen to help further that with my own expertise and experience."
Gold will replace outgoing director of rugby Sir Ian McGeechan.
Gold has most recently spent the past four months as interim coach of Newcastle Falcons as he attempts to keep them in the Aviva Premiership.
But he is ready for a new challenge next season and Bath's chief executive Nick Blofeld is delighted they have managed to lure the South African to the post.
"Gary has put together a very strong team with great experience," he said.
"This also demonstrates the club's long-term commitment to being the best we can be and getting the most out of a talented squad.
"They have tremendous experience and complimentary skills, especially with Brad Davis remaining as part of the coaching team."
Gold will be joined by Booth, who also boasts international experience, having been forwards coach for the England Saxons in the Churchill Cup.
"Bath is a great club, with clear goals and targets and know where they want to be," Booth said.
"I'm really keen to start working with the squad. I have enjoyed all my coaching roles, but do feel now is the right time to move on to another club and challenge."
More details will be given about each of the coaches' specific roles in June.
Former front row forward Hatley added: "I'm very excited by the challenge of moving into the forwards coach role with Bath.
"I have been impressed with the ambition and facilities at the club and am really looking forward to working with the players and coaches."
