King joins from the Western Bulldogs, where his decade of service with this year's grand finalists included winning the 2016 premiership.

He was most recently senior assistant to Luke Beveridge.

King will head north ahead of the pre-season, due to start in November.

"We've said publicly that we want to continue to add to our football department to ensure we can provide our players and staff with the best possible chance for success and Steven definitely does that," general manager of football performance Wayne Campbell said.

"He has an extensive coaching background and we believe he can bring new elements to our young and exciting midfield group to help them reach new heights in 2022 and beyond."

King also had a prolific playing career, making 193 AFL appearances at Geelong, who he captained from 2003-2006, including playing in the 2007 premiership.

He also made 47 appearances for St Kilda.

King's departure has seen the Bulldogs promote Ash Hansen to senior assistant, while they will now be on the hunt for a midfield coach, with Beveridge hailing King's influence.

"His versatility as a coach, his demeanour and rapport with the players and staff, and his tactical nous, have helped us achieve the success we've had over the last six years," he said.

"We are disappointed to lose 'Kingy', as he explores this next exciting step on his coaching journey.

"We are fully supportive of the lifestyle choice he and his family has made and will always be here for him."

Australian Associated Press