The most successful coach in South Africa, the 40-year-old Meyer has gained a reputation for innovation and developing talent.
He led the Vodacom Bulls to the 2007 Super 14 title the first South African side to win the trophy - and won four Currie Cups in five years, as well as leading his team to four Vodacom Cup finals.
Leicester Tigers chairman Peter Tom CBE said: We believe Heyneke is the outstanding candidate for a job which attracted a massive amount of interest from coaches all over the rugby world.
He has a superb record in South Africa and we were very impressed by his levels of professionalism, preparation and enthusiasm when he spoke to us.
Heyneke has dealt with top-quality international players in his time with the Bulls and in working with the South Africa national squad. He has also developed players from within the ranks at his previous clubs and he has an impressive record of success in a very competitive environment.
We believe he is the man to take Leicester Tigers forward in a crucial time for this club.
Meyer, who will arrive at Welford Road before the start of the new Guinness Premiership season after agreeing a three-year contract, said: I have always thought that if I want to get back into rugby it must be with one of the best clubs in the world, and I truly believe Leicester Tigers are one of the best clubs in world rugby.
I have a lot of respect for what the club has achieved in the past and I have been impressed with everybody I have met from the club.
I know there are a lot of competitive clubs in the Guinness Premiership and I am looking forward to the challenge with Leicester Tigers.
I am humbled that a club like Leicester Tigers has considered me alongside the other candidates for the job of head coach and I am very thankful that they have appointed me.
Now I am looking forward to getting started.
Heyneke Meyer Fact file
Career: 2001-07 Blue Bulls/Bulls head coach, 2000 Northern Bulls head coach, 2000 South Africa assistant coach, 1998-99 SWD Eagles head coach, 2000 Stormers assistant coach, 1999 South Africa assistant coach, 1998 Emerging Springboks head coach, 1997 SWD Eagles assistant coach, 1988-1996 junior, high school, U21s and Carlton League coach
Key Achievements: The only coach to win Vodacom Cup, Currie Cup and Super 14; four Currie Cup victories in five years, including only third hat-trick in the competitions history; first South African winners of Super 14 title; nominated as candidate for national coach; youngest-ever Currie Cup coach with SWD Eagles; led team to Currie Cup semi-final for first time in 100-year history in 1999; assistant coach to South Africa side which reached 1999 Rugby World Cup semi-finals.
Honours: Vodacom Cup winner 2001; Currie Cup winner 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006; Super 14 winner 2007
