James Fowler has returned to Kilmarnock in a non-playing role as Head of Football Operations.
The Rugby Park legend, who played almost 500 times for the Ayrshire side, has returned five years after leaving as a player.
He has since played for and managed Queen of the South, and was assistant to Jack Ross at English League One side Sunderland.
After Ross parted ways with Sunderland earlier this season, Fowler had been tipped to join the former St Mirren and Alloa boss at his next job, likely to be Hibernian.
But now he is getting set to take over the newly created role at Killie after Football Executive Kirsten Robertson left in July.
Fowler spent a total of 17 years at Rugby Park as he came through the youth setup.
The Killie Hall of Famer had a testimonial with the Rugby Park side in 2012 when Killie lost 4-1 to Sheffield Wednesday.
Manuel Pascali scored a consolation as a Marlon Harewood hat-trick and Chris O'Grady strike put Killie to the sword.
He also holds the all-time SPL (now disbanded) appearance record with 401.
Director Billy Bowie was thrilled at sealing Fowler’s signature, and spoke of his excitement at the appointment.
“We’re delighted to welcome James back to Killie,” he told the club’s official website.
“James’ experience for the role is second to none and we’re all looking forward to working with him going forward.”
Echoing Billy’s thoughts, James says he’s thrilled to be back at Kilmarnock, and is looking forward to getting started in the football department.
“I am thrilled to be coming back to the club as Head of Football Operations,” he said.
“With the experience I’ve gained in the last 5-year in various roles within the industry, I feel that this is the right opportunity for me to implement my ideas.”
“The club and supporters have always been so welcoming to me, and I am looking forward to working with the board, Angelo Alessio and his staff, and the fans to continue to build the strongest team we can at Kilmarnock Football Club.”
