Hibernian have appointed Dutch coach Marink Reedijk as their new manager on a three-year contract.
The 35-year-old replaces David Gray, whose 12-year association with the Easter Road club ended earlier this month.
Reedijk arrives in the capital following an impressive two-year spell with SK Beveren, where he guided the Belgian club to the Challenger Pro League title and promotion to the country’s top division.
Beveren also completed the league campaign unbeaten under Reedijk, becoming the first side to go through a professional Belgian league season without defeat since 1934.
The Dutchman had previously been linked with the vacant manager’s position at Hearts before the Tynecastle club opted to appoint Wouter Vrancken following the departure of Derek McInnes to Rangers. Hibs have now moved to bring Reedijk to the capital, with former Dutch international Rogier Molhoek joining his coaching staff.
Reedijk said he was relishing the opportunity to take charge of one of Scotland’s biggest clubs.
“I am honoured to be appointed manager of Hibernian Football Club,” he said.
“This is one of the biggest clubs in Scottish football, with a unique history, identity and supporter base, and I am excited to experience that passion and connection first-hand.
“I can feel the ambition and see the clarity of what the club is trying to achieve. That was a big part of what attracted me here.”
The new Hibs boss’ first match in charge will be against Dundee United on the 10th October at Tannadice.
“I want us to be an assertive team. Brave, intense and committed,” Reedijk added. “A team that gives everything, plays with purpose and gives our supporters something to really get behind.
“There is quality and potential in the squad, and good work has already been done. My first job is to get to know the players, build on those foundations and make sure we are ready for Dundee United.”
Sporting director Malky Mackay said Hibs had targeted a manager capable of continuing the club’s footballing direction, rather than beginning another wholesale rebuild.
“Marink’s appointment is an exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club,” Mackay said.
“We began this process with a clear idea of the type of team we want to continue to build and the qualities we wanted from our next manager. Marink’s football philosophy, his work with players and his leadership style are strongly aligned with that.”
Mackay highlighted Reedijk’s record of developing players and creating aggressive, energetic sides.
“His teams are proactive, high-energy and dynamic,” he continued. “What also stands out is his ability to develop individuals and create a strong collective environment.
“This is not about changing the direction of our football strategy. It is about continuing to evolve, and we believe Marink is an excellent fit to take the team forward.”
Chairman Ian Gordon described Reedijk as the outstanding candidate and promised continued investment as the club target domestic progress and European football.
“Marink was the standout candidate,” Gordon said. “He impressed everyone involved in the process with his clarity, intelligence and drive.
“He shares our ambition to develop players and consistently compete at the top end of Scottish football and in Europe.
“Marink has our backing, and we will continue to invest in the team to give him the best possible platform to succeed.”