Former Blues Super Rugby coach Pat Lam has been named head coach at Irish club Connacht, chief executive Tom Sears says.

Lam, who was succeeded by Sir John Kirwan at the Blues after their dismal 12th-placed finish last season, replaces outgoing coach Eric Elwood.

Lam, 44, has signed a two-year contract with an option to extend, and begins his new job on June 1. Elwood will remain in the position for the remainder of the 2012-13 season.

A former Samoan captain, Lam's rugby playing career included spells with Newcastle Falcons and Northampton Saints, where he lifted the Heineken Cup.