Paris - Current Scotland coach Vern Cotter will take over Montpellier in the 2017/18 season, the French Top 14 side announced.
The 54-year-old New Zealander, who previously worked in France with Clermont, will remain with the Scottish Rugby Union until June next year when his contract expires and he is replaced by Gregor Townsend.
He will succeed former Springbok coach Jake White at the Altrad Stadium.
At this stage it's uncertain as to where White will coach next.