Harlequins confirm three coaching appointments ahead of next season, including head coach

The appointments follow an extensive recruitment process aimed at strengthening the club’s performance programme and driving long-term success.

Deans arrives with vast international and club experience, including roles with the All Blacks and Wallabies, as well as multiple title-winning spells with the Crusaders and in Japan.

He will join the club’s board and oversee the overall performance strategy, focusing on playing identity, talent development and culture. He is set to begin in July 2026.

Gilmore, who stepped into a senior role at the start of the 2025/26 season, takes the Head Coach position permanently after previously serving as Defence Coach.

He brings prior head coaching experience with Australia A, the Under-20s and the Barbarians, and will continue shaping the team’s style and environment.

Hunter will arrive in July 2026 after a successful period with Exeter Chiefs, where he played a key role in multiple Premiership finals and a historic domestic and European double. He is expected to add physicality and structure to the forward pack.