The Western Force have confirmed the appointment of Michael Foley as head coach for the next three Super Rugby seasons.

Foley quit his post at the NSW Waratahs on Tuesday, and will replace Richard Graham as head coach of the Force.

The appointment ends a drawn-out saga for the Force, who parted ways with Graham in mid-April after it was revealed the former Wallabies assistant had signed a deal to coach the Queensland Reds from next season.

The Force managed just three wins this year, and were dealt a huge blow last week when captain David Pocock defected to the Brumbies.

Foley spent three years as an assistant at the Waratahs before taking on the head role in 2012, where he managed to guide the side to just four wins from 16 games.

The 45-year-old, who represented the Wallabies in two World Cups, said he was excited to link up with the Force.

''This is an important period for the club and, while we're not looking to start from scratch, we're looking to relaunch the team,'' Foley said.

''There's no doubt the club has had a few setbacks in recent times but there are many people at the club, both on and off the field, that are very determined to see the Force successful.

''While my expectations are realistic, I'm very excited about this challenge.

''The coaching staff will be looking to promote an exciting brand of rugby that captures the imagination of our fans and wins games as well.''

Although forwards coach Nick Stiles will remain at the Force, the franchise has begun the search for a new backs coach to replace Phil Blake

- AAP