Queenslander Phil Mooney (44) has wide coaching experience with the Queensland Reds, Australia A and the Australian under-19 team and at present is the skills coach with the Brisbane Broncos league team.
"I'm thrilled," Mr Mooney told the Otago Daily Times from Brisbane yesterday.
"I'm aware of the strong rugby heritage in Otago and it's very humbling to face a challenge like this."
The two-year appointment was made by the ORFU board of directors on Monday night.
ORFU chief executive Richard Reid said Mr Mooney was the outstanding candidate.
"While it's unusual for an Australian to be appointed to such a high-profile coaching role in New Zealand, we needed the best man for the job," he said.
"We think he is the right guy. Phil will easily fit into Otago rugby and be able to gather good people around him."
His wife, Stephanie, is from Taranaki and has lived in Queensland for 15 years.
An assistant coach will be appointed early next year.
Mr Mooney named former Otago captain and Otago Country coach David Latta and Otago B coach Mike Moeahu as possible candidates.
Both were short-listed for the top job and were naturally disappointed.
Mr Latta had been the frontrunner.
"It's a kick in the guts, but I have broad shoulders and a thick skin," Mr Latta said.
"I have a good business and loyal staff and life goes on."
He would not commit himself to an assistant coach role.
"At the moment, I would probably say no," he said.
"But I won't make any decision until the dust settles . . ."
Mr Moeahu remains the Otago Sevens and Otago B coach.
