Former Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes has been named the new manager of Kilmarnock on an 18 month deal.
The 50-year-old is back 10 months after he was sacked by the Dons in the wake of a wretched run of results.
And McInnes is rolling up his sleeves for a title battle as he looks to secure Killie an instant return to the Scottish Premiership.
They currently sit fourth in the Championship, five points behind shock league leaders Arbroath.
Kilmarnock's ropey run cost former boss Tommy Wright his job, with head of football James Fowler overseeing the search for a new manager.
McInnes has been linked with several openings and has turned heads with his work as pundit in recent months for a variety of broadcasters.
The former Rangers and West Brom star boasts an enviable CV and led Aberdeen to a successful spell during his eight years in charge.
He won one League Cup and led the Dons to four consecutive second place finishes between 2014 and 2018, securing over 70 points in each of those seasons.
And Killie hope McInnes will be able to harness some of the displays that became a hallmark under Steve Clarke's stewardship before he left for the Scotland job.
The new boss said: "I’m delighted to be here and I’m well aware of the potential of the club having played and managed against Kilmarnock over the years. I remember the Tommy Burns era and more recently Steve Clarke bringing good success and consistency.
“I know the backing from the fans can make this club special so for me it is a great opportunity.”
Coaches Paul Stephenson and Alan Maybury have left the club, with the new man to bring in his own staff.
Director Billy Bowie said: "Derek is one of the most highly respected managers in Scottish football and we are thrilled that he’s agreed to join Kilmarnock.
"From our discussions, it was clear he shared our determination and ambition to bring success to our club and we look forward to working with him to achieve our goals for this season and beyond."
