Forwards coach Jimmy Duffy will leave Ulster at the end of the season, despite a contract extension being announced in January.
Duffy and the rest of Ulster’s coaching team were included in a contract extension until 2028, alongside head coach Richie Murphy.
However he will now leave Ulster, who sit third in the United Rugby Championship, at the end of the campaign.
Ulster said Duffy will depart the Affidea Stadium “with our gratitude and appreciation”, and the decision was so he could move closer to his Galway-based family.
He joined Ulster in 2024 from Western Force and he had previously worked with Connacht and Ireland Under-20s.
Duffy, who is from Galway, said he was sad to be leaving Ulster but “this decision was the best thing for me and my family”.
“My focus is now on continuing our work, keep pushing on and giving everything to have a strong end to the season,” he added.
Ulster head coach Murphy had worked with Duffy since their time with Ireland’s Under-20s and said he had been “vital” to the province’s revival.
“He has been important for the progression and development of our players,” Murphy added.
“He is an excellent coach with wealth of experience, and I wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Rory Best, Ulster’s general manager, said he was “disappointed” to lose Duffy at the end of the season but “it is ultimately the best choice for him and his family”.
“We are in a strong position to have a successful end to the season, and I know that all the coaching staff remain focused on achieving our aims,” the former Ulster and Ireland captain added.
“We thank Jimmy for his dedication in the role and wish him well for the future.”
Backs coach Mark Sexton and defence coach Willie Faloon will remain part of Murphy’s coaching team beyond the end of the season.