The Bin Zayed Group, who almost bought Newcastle United last summer, have appointed former Magpies boss Steve McClaren as an advisor to the board.
McClaren, who was sacked by Newcastle after just nine months in charge in 2016, has returned to Derby after two previous spells as the club's manager.
The former England boss was replaced by Rafa Benitez in March 2016, with United hurtling towards relegation from the Premier League.
The ex-United manager will assume the role and duties of both advisor and Technical Director, a position which has been identified by agreement between Mel Morris and Derventio Holdings as important to the future of the club.
Derventio Holdings was the company set up to complete a takeover of Derby with Midhat Kidwai as the sole director, and with Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nehayan listed as a "person with significant control".
Commenting on the announcement, Stephen Pearce, Derby's Chief Executive Officer said: “We are delighted to have Steve’s help and support at this critical time.
"His knowledge, experience, and academic qualifications will be invaluable to us. I am sure he will make a huge contribution.”
The Bin Zayed Group were keen to buy Newcastle last summer but a takeover deal with the Dubai-based group never materialised.
They agreed a takeover of the Rams earlier this month and the sale was granted approval by the English Football League.
