Martin Grubb will take on the role of head coach of Great Britain Under-20s at this month’s World Championship (Division 1B) as Tommy Watkins is unable to attend because of club commitments.
Paul Heavey and Slava Koulikov will continue as assistant coaches.
Kirkcaldy-born Grubb is coach of GB U18s and domestically is in charge of Solway Sharks.
GB, who won a bronze medal in France last year, will take on hosts Hungary, as well as Slovenia, Poland, Italy and Ukraine.
The six-team tournament runs from 11th to 17th December 2016 at the Jegpalota Ice Centre in Budapest.
Grubb said: “It will be an honour to step up and coach the Great Britain U20s in Budapest.
“Most of the players I have coached at under-18 level, so I know what a great group they are.
“There will be a great coaching staff around me and I know everyone is excited for the challenge.”
Watkins is coach of EPL side Telford Tigers and is currently having to take a lead in working through challenging off-ice financial issues.
“This is not a decision I have taken lightly,” said Watkins. “I am really gutted I had to make this call.
“I am so proud to be in the GB coaching set-up, but this is a difficult and unusual time for Telford Tigers.
“I know the coaches and staff will do a fantastic job.”
Ice Hockey UK head development coach, Tony Hand, said: “It is a real shame we are losing Tommy this month, but we understand he’s in a very challenging position.
“However, I’m certain Martin, Paul, Slava and Karl Creamer will do a great job.
“They have a lot of experience and I am confident the team will have an excellent tournament.”