North Melbourne has officially announced Rhyce Shaw as senior coach for at least the next three seasons, beginning in 2020.

Club chairman Ben Buckley says Shaw was exactly what North was looking for.

"A few months ago, I sat here as we embarked on the search for our new coach, and I described the type of person we were after to lead the team. That was someone of the highest integrity and someone who could get the very best out of the players," he said.

"A people person who could build strong relationships with all our people and take us forward, as we strive to win our next premiership. Someone who would embrace the past, present and the future.

"We have found that person in Rhyce."

Shaw becomes North's 36th head coach in a history stretching 150 years.

"Since Rhyce took over as interim coach two months ago, we saw a transformation and a response from the entire football department, that encouraged us, inspired us and reassured us," Buckley said.

"He was the best fit for our club and we thank him for his efforts so far, and also thank his family - Lia, Freddie and Louis."

Shaw played 237 games for Collingwood and Sydney between 2000 and 2015, and is a member of the Swans’ 2012 premiership side. Following his retirement from playing, he spent four years coaching at Sydney. Two of those were in charge of the NEAFL side where he coached the team to two consecutive minor premierships and Grand Final appearances.

He left Sydney and joined North at the end of 2018 as a defensive coach.

"In his short coaching tenure, he has been extremely successful," Buckley added.

"Rhyce has been an outstanding leader in his time at the helm and we are delighted to make his appointment formal, today."