Western Force assistant coach Richard Graham has been appointed to take over the senior role from John Mitchell when the current Force boss steps down at the end of 2011.
Graham, currently the skills coach with the Wallabies, joined the Force for the 2010 season as backs coach after seven years working with Bath and Saracens in England.
He will take over for the 2012 season after Mitchell, the inaugural Western Force coach, finishes his contract at the end of next year's Super 15 season.
RugbyWA chief executive Vern Reid said Graham had been selected from numerous high-quality candidates after having already had a big impact at the club after just one season in Perth.
"We have the utmost confidence that the timing of Richard's appointment will enable a seamless transition not often afforded to professional sporting organisations," Reid said in a statement on Friday.
"One which will prove to be a significant benefit in our planning going forward."
"Richard is an exceptional leader and rugby tactician who has a proven ability to nurture and create an environment where players can excel."
"The position of head coach at the Western Force was highly sought after. We had a long list of qualified candidates however in Richard we felt we had someone who embodied the Force culture and is committed to continuing the development of rugby in Western Australia."
Graham has served his coaching apprenticeship for the best part of a decade following a playing career in which he captained the Australian Sevens, represented Australia A and also competed at two Commonwealth Games.
Graham returned to Australia late last year to work with Robbie Deans in the Wallabies program and joined the Force as backs coach for their most recent campaign.
"I'm delighted to be given this opportunity and feel as though it is the right time to be making the next step in my progression as a professional coach," Graham said.
"I've been fortunate to have worked under five international coaches and certainly think I have done a worthy apprenticeship. I look forward to having another season working under John and when my turn comes in 12 months time I certainly will be ready for it."
"John has been wonderfully supportive during 2010 and has given me increased responsibility as the season continued and I can only see that relationship developing further next season."
Graham will continue with the Australian Rugby Union in his current position as skills coach until the end of the 2011 World Cup