THE FIRST domino in Collingwood's assistant coach clean out has fallen, with Scott Burns to depart the Magpies bound for Hawthorn.

West Coast premiership defender Darren Glass will join Burns at the Hawks in 2018, complementing Brett Ratten and Adem Yze as coach Alastair Clarkson's most trusted lieutenants.

Burns, Collingwood's midfield coach from 2014-2017, was one of senior coach Nathan Buckley's closest confidants, but leaves the Magpies with new assistants set to offer fresh support to the re-signed Buckley.

Burns, who previously spent five years as an assistant coach at West Coast, played 264 games at the Pies and is a member of the club's Hall of Fame.

"Scott has given outstanding service to this club over the past two decades in his various roles as a player, captain and assistant coach," general manager of football Geoff Walsh said.

"Burnsy has established many long-lasting relationships over his time and he leaves as a great of this football club. We wish Scott and his family all the best in their next chapter."

Glass has been working as a business strategy consultant in Western Australia, having attained a Masters of Business Administration at the completion of his playing career.

Hawks football manager Jason Burt said Burns and Glass would offer the club a new perspective.

"Both Scott and Darren captained their respective clubs during their playing careers and have exceptional leadership skills," Burt said.

"We are really excited about what both Scott and Darren bring to the table and we look forward to them starting their roles at the Hawks."