Mike Ford is looking forward to embarking on the next chapter in his career when he leaves Bath this summer.
Bath announced on Monday that Ford was to depart as the club's head coach following a season of under-achievement that saw the team finish ninth in the Premiership, 17 points adrift of the play-off places.
Former England defence coach Ford, who had three years left on his contract at the Recreation Ground, led Bath to the Premiership final at Twickenham last May, when they were beaten by Saracens.
Ford, 50, wrote on Twitter on Tuesday: "It was an honour to be part of the Bath family for four years. Thank you to the staff and players, past and present, for their commitment.
"Thank you to the Bath family for your unbelievable support. Disappointed I couldn't take the next step with you!
"I leave Bath Rugby with so many wonderful memories and now look forward to embracing the new opportunities that lie ahead."
Bath are now reviewing their coaching set-up, with former England coach Stuart Lancaster, ex-South Africa boss Heyneke Meyer and Connacht's Pat Lam among those to be linked with the post.