New Western Force coach Michael Foley wants to “relaunch” the Perth-based franchise after signing on as head coach for the next three Super Rugby seasons.

Foley quit his post at the NSW Waratahs on Tuesday in order to link up with the Force, where he replaces Richard Graham.

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.

Foley spent three years as an assistant at the Waratahs before taking on the head role in 2012.

The step up proved to be a tough initiation for Foley, who guided the Waratahs to just four wins from 16 games.

And the former Wallabies hooker faces an even bigger task to turn around the fortunes of the Force, who managed just three wins this year and have since lost skipper David Pocock to the Brumbies and veteran lock Nathan Sharpe to retirement.

“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,” said Foley, who represented the Wallabies at two World Cups.

“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 is expected to appoint a new backs coach to replace Phil Blake.