The former editor of the News of the World is to take over as the communications director of the Conservative Party.

Andy Coulson resigned from the newspaper after former royal editor Clive Goodman was jailed for intercepting phone messages.

Goodman had paid private investigator Glenn Mulcaire - also jailed in January - to access the answerphone messages of staff working in the royal household.

The 38-year-old Coulson, formerly a showbiz reporter at the Sun and editor of the News of the World for four years, takes up his new position as director of communications and planning on July 9.

He will be filling a newly created role, with existing staff retaining their positions.

The leader's press secretary, George Eustice, will continue working with lobby journalists while Coulson's work will involve developing broad strategies.

Tory leader David Cameron said: "Andy is a hugely experienced journalist. I am delighted that he has agreed to join my team as director of communications and planning.

"Andy will make a formidable contribution as a senior member of my team in building the most effective strategy and operation to win the next general election.

"I look forward very much to working with him."

Coulson said: "I am delighted to be joining David Cameron's team and I look forward to helping the Conservative Party to return to government under his leadership."

It will also be part of Coulson's remit to foster contacts with national newspaper editors and senior commentators.