DAVE Challinor is the new manager of Stockport County, arriving at Edgeley Park from League Two side Hartlepool United.
Challinor replaces Simon Rusk in the County hot-seat. Stockport parted company with Rusk, who was appointed to the role in January, after defeat to struggling Barnet left them tenth in the National League.
Former County captain Challinor has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal. Since stepping into management, Challinor has forged a successful career throughout the lower divisions, with five previous promotions to his name.
Most recently, he led Hartlepool back to the English Football League in his first full season at Victoria Park, adding to promotions with Colwyn Bay and AFC Fylde, as well as an FA Trophy win with the Coasters in 2019.
"The chance to return to County and help make club history was too good an opportunity to miss.
He told the club's official website: "The excitement surrounding the club and the investment that has been put into it, on and off the pitch, makes County an incredibly attractive proposition for any manager.
"This can be seen by the influx of new talent the club has recruited over the last month, with the likes of Robert Elstone and Bolton Wanderer's Antoni Sarcevic joining.
"Now is the time to capitalise on this and take the fans on the journey they deserve, making Stockport County a force to be reckoned with and getting back to the Football League."
Director of Football Simon Wilson said: "Dave brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and determination.
"With a proven track record for achieving promotion, Dave was a firm favourite for the job, and we're delighted to welcome him back to Edgeley Park."
The appointment was not without controversy. In a statement Hartlepool said: "As a club we were disappointed the first approach did not come direct to the club.
"Also, that this was so soon after Dave signed a new three-year contract."