The appointment sees him replace former England batter Bell who had been a batting consultant for Derbyshire since 2022 but has opted to continue working across the circuit
Derbyshire have appointed Ben Smith as their new batting coach.
The appointment comes as Ian Bell, a batting consultant since 2022, turned down a permanent role to continue working across the circuit.
Smith, 51, comes into the role with a strong coaching background, having held positions at former sides Leicestershire and Worcestershire, as well as Ireland and Super Smash side Central Stags.
He left Northamptonshire last October after two years in an identical role.
A playing career spanning 20 years included scoring over 18,000 first-class runs and twice winning the County Championship.
"It's great to be joining Derbyshire, I'm impressed by the ability of the squad and I'm looking forward to getting to work with our batters," said Smith, who arrives in February.
Bell has worked with Derbyshire during the past two seasons (Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
"Mickey is trying to do something really exciting at this Club, and it's a project I'm really looking forward to being a part of."
Head of cricket Mickey Arthur added: "I'm so pleased to welcome Ben into our coaching team, he's highly regarded within the game and I was really impressed with him throughout the recruitment process.
"Ian Bell has done an excellent job over the last couple of seasons, but now he's ready for the next stage of his coaching journey and we wish him all the best for the future.
"At this stage in our squad's development, it's important our batters can receive constant support, day in day out, and that's what Ben will provide for us."
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