Famously coaching the Hawks to five straight wins as interim coach in 2014 after several seasons as an assistant, Bolton took up his maiden head coach role with Carlton in late 2015.

The 40-year-old recorded a 7-15 record in his first season in charge but was unable to catapult the Blues back up the ladder and was sacked in June, with caretaker coach David Teague appointed the Blues' new coach the following month.

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Bolton told the Hawthorn website he was "really eager" to take on his next challenge.

"I return to the Hawks with a wealth of new experiences, learning and knowledge and I'm really excited about the opportunity to help Hawthorn improve," Bolton said.

"My love of football is as strong as ever and the chance to work with the Hawks' coaching group is something that really excites me.

"Hawthorn feels like home for me and my family and we are incredibly happy to be back in the brown and gold."

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Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson said he was thrilled to have the ex-North Launceston premiership player back in his corner.

"Bolts is a quality character and we are thrilled to have him back at the Hawks," the four-time flag coach said.

"In his time at Hawthorn, he displayed a fantastic ability to build strong relationships with the playing and coaching groups, and his teaching background enables him to excel in assisting people with their development.

"Having the opportunity to be a senior coach, Bolts has gained invaluable experience and knowledge that will help us in taking our coaching group to that next level.

"We look forward to having Brendon, wife Louisa and their children Ned and Rosie back at Hawthorn."

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