Former Oxford University director of rugby Steve Hill is to take up the same role at National 2 South club Richmond.

Hill, who stepped down last month after 14 years with the Dark Blues, will start the full-time post on June 1.

Given the title of director of rugby and head of coaching, Hill has been charged with helping the former Premiership club rise up the National Leagues.

Hill said: “I am hugely attracted by the vision that Richmond has and I am really looking forward to not only improving the 1st XV, but also developing the community side of the club across all ages.

“I aim to provide an exciting and stimulating rugby environment for high quality players who do not wish to play full time professional rugby.”

The former Blackheath back-row forward, who has also coached Harlequins, Newbury and England Students, replaces Geoff Richard, who is not renewing his contract at Richmond.

Richmond chairman David Corben said: “We have been fortunate to have found someone of Steve’s calibre to carry on our quest to become one of the best community clubs playing at the top of the national leagues.

“All of my colleagues are excited at the prospect of working with him.”

Richmond finished a disappointing eighth in National 2 South this season after a coming fourth in 2008-09.

Meanwhile, Lord Butler has stepped down as Oxford University RFC president and been replaced by former chairman Peter Bridges.

Ronnie Lamb, a fly half who captained Oxford to Varsity Match victory in 1964, has taken oven as chairman.

As for Hill’s successor, Bridges said: “We are now in the process of restructuring the club.

“We are in discussions at the moment about a new coach for the Michaelmas term.

“The captain, Nick Haydon, is conducting this and we hope to confirm someone in the next three to four weeks.

“We are not going to have a coach who will be signed up ad infinitum.”

Bridges added: “I think Steve will do a good job there. It is a good opportunity for him.

“Oxford University and Richmond have always had close links.”