Hearts have this afternoon confirmed the appointment of William Lancefield as the club's new head of recruitment.
The Jambos made the announcement via their official website, with Lancefield, 28, having previously worked as a lead scout at English Premier League side Southampton.
Moreover, Lancefield has previously worked closely with Tynecastle sporting director Joe Savage at Norwich City, who is thought to have played a key role in making the selection.
In a statement posted to the Hearts website, Savage was quoted as saying: "This is a crucial role at the club and I’m really happy that we’ve got William on board.
“He’s someone I know well and as such I’m well aware of his talents and the skills he will bring to this club.
“Although this was an appointment that we took a bit of time over because we wanted to get it right, as soon as I knew John Murray was departing I made William my No.1 target.
“I’m certain that in William we’ve got someone who will make a positive impact in the way that we recruit players that can take us forward on the pitch."
Lancefield can also count Tottenham Hotspur among his former employers, and his move to Edinburgh looks to be an indication of the Tynecastle club's attempt to plunder the English market in the forthcoming season.
The news comes after Hearts' previous head scout John Murray announced his retirement last week, bringing down the curtain on a 25-year association with the Gorgie outfit, as well as Jim jeffereies' decision to leave his role as a club consultant.
