Edinburgh will begin their hunt for a new head coach next week after Andy Robinson's appointment as Scotland boss.

Robinson, 45, stepped down from his role at the capital club on Thursday after a 20-month spell which saw the side record their two highest ever finishes in the Magners League. That included the runners-up spot this season, with Edinburgh finishing the competition's top points scorers.

Chief executive Nic Cartwright said: "Andy's professionalism and knowledge has enabled Edinburgh to progress at a phenomenal rate over the past two seasons and his contribution, both on and off the pitch, will never be forgotten."

He added: "His rapport with our players, staff and supporters was incredibly special.

"His top-class coaching skills have enabled our vibrant young team to develop into a team capable of challenging for trophies and now we must carry that positive work forward as we look to progress to the next level."

Scottish Rugby Union chief executive Gordon McKie is confident Edinburgh will continue to flourish, despite Robinson's departure.

He said: "We did consider the potential implications if Andy were to leave Edinburgh and move onto Scotland and what happens to the progress that had been made.

"That said, the culture that exists within Edinburgh is a culture that can continue and build, despite Andy moving upstairs to Scotland.

"We will go out now and find somebody. We will advertise the role fully next week and the process hopefully will be about a month, all being well, to appoint Andy's successor."

Robinson himself added: "Edinburgh have developed as a side and have shown some very good improvements. It's important that Edinburgh keep those improvements and keep working. I certainly believe they'll get better and better."