Tom Smith has left Cardiff Blues following Monday night’s Guinness PRO14 finale against Edinburgh Rugby.
The forwards coach, who joined the club ahead of the 2018-19 season, was due to come out of contract at the end of the season but that arrangement has not been extended.
And with the regular PRO14 concluding on Monday night, and European qualification decided upon those positions, it has been agreed it is beneficial to all parties to part company ahead of the Rainbow Cup.
Cardiff Blues interim Director of Rugby Dai Young said: “I would like to thank Tom on behalf of everyone at Cardiff Blues for all of his efforts here.
“Part of my role since returning has been to oversee and get to grips with the various structures here. With Duane Goodfield and Thomas Rhys Thomas both in contract our coaching structure did not have the most effective balance.
“It is a shame to see Tom go but I am sure he has benefitted from the experience here and has a bright future as young and talented coach. We wish him all the best for the future.”
The former Ospreys flanker moved to the Arms Park after serving as Elite Youth Performance Manager and Assistant Forwards Coach at the Liberty Stadium.
However, following three seasons with Cardiff Blues he is now looking forward to the next challenge in his career.
Smith added: “I have enjoyed my three years at Cardiff Blues and I’m grateful to the club for the opportunity to step into senior coaching.
“I have learnt a huge amount and developed as a coach during that time.
“With the PRO14 season coming to an end and European qualification decided upon those finishing positions, it was a natural juncture to move on.
“It is pleasing to have finished on a positive note, on the back of two important wins where the forwards stood up when it mattered. The pack have taken big strides this year and that gives me great satisfaction.
“I move on with some great memories and wish everyone at the club all the best for the future.
“I am now looking forward to a couple of months with my young family before beginning a new chapter in my career.”