Jack Ross is the new manager of St Mirren, leaving his post at Alloa Athletic.

A former player with the Buddies, the 40-year-old returns to the Scottish Championship side to replace Alex Rae.

Ross held talks with St Mirren chairman Gordon Scott on Monday, having been given permission by his current employers.

"I'm delighted to be named the new manager of St Mirren Football Club," Ross told the club's official website. "I have fond memories of my time in Paisley as a player and can't wait to get started."

Buddies chairman Gordon Scott, who took in Alloa's game with Airdrie at the weekend, added: "I was very impressed with Jack when we got a chance to meet and am delighted to have him on board as our new manager.

"I look forward to working alongside him as we look to bring success to the football club.

"One of the big plus points for me was Jack being with Hearts at a time when their supporters got involved in the ownership of their club."

Former Dundee United manager Mixu Paatelainen, himself an ex-St Mirren player, was interviewed for the post on Monday.

Ross took charge at Recreation Park in December 2015 and was unable to prevent Alloa from being relegated to League One.

His side have enjoyed a strong start to the 2016/17 campaign, winning five of their opening eight league matches.

Ross previously had spells as Ian Murray's assistant at Dumbarton, before moving to Hearts to be their Under-20s coach.

He had playing spells with Clyde, Hartlepool United, Falkirk, St Mirren, Hamilton Academical and Dunfermline Athletic.