St Kilda has appointed Luke Beveridge as its Director of Coaching.

The highly-rated Beveridge will take on the new role in the St Kilda coaching structure from 2015.

Beveridge comes to the club from Hawthorn where he served as backline coach for the past three seasons.

Before his time at the Hawks, Beveridge worked at Collingwood as a development coach and also at Amateur club St Bede’s Mentone which he coached to consecutive C, B and A grade premierships. He also has a strong background in management in public service agencies.

Beveridge played 45 games at the Saints from 1996-99 after stints at Melbourne (42 games from 1989-92) and Footscray (31 games from 1993-96).

The 43-year-old said he was thrilled to return to the fold at the Saints.

“I’m really excited about the prospect of coming to St Kilda and working with the players and the coaches as the club builds towards future success,” Beveridge said.

“Obviously we’re pleased to have secured Luke’s services to the Saints from 2015. His previous experience at prominent AFL clubs along with his success as a coach in the VAFA makes him an ideal addition to our football staff.” St Kilda Head of Football Chris Pelchen said.

“The ongoing development of the coaching structure is a key focus of the St Kilda football department and the role of Director of Coaching is an integral part of this program.

Beveridge’s father John has worked with the Saints for more than 30 years in recruiting and development.

Beveridge will continue his current role at Hawthorn until the end of the 2014 season.