Law replaces Jim Jeffries, who resigned as manager of Division One side Bradford on Christmas Eve.

Law guided the Spireites to promotion last season despite a nine-point penalty imposed on the club for financial irregularities.

Law, who has signed a two-and-a-half year contract at Valley Parade, said: "This is a great opportunity for me.

"It has taken two years, but it has now arrived and I am absolutely delighted.

"I had two great years at Chesterfield. Sure we went through some difficult times but we stuck together, buckled down and gained promotion against all the odds."

Caretaker Bradford manager Steve Smith will remain in charge for Saturday's Division One match away to leaders Burnley.

Delighted City chairman Geoffrey Richmond said: "There were a large number of applicants for the vacant managerial position.

"Nicky Law had an extremely difficult baptism as a league manager at Chesterfield where, despite off-the-field problems, he achieved promotion against all the odds.

"The qualities I believe he will bring to the post are his ambition, passion, work ethic and his outstanding ability to discover young talent."

Chesterfield assistant manager Ian Banks will move with Law to Bradford.

Kevin Hornsby will also be joining the pair as Bradford's new fitness coach.

Dave Rushbury has agreed to temporarily take charge of team affairs at Chesterfield ahead of their game with Brentford this weekend.

Chesterfield chairman Ian Yeowart said: "We would not wish to stand in the way of Nicky Law's ambitions in the game but are sad to lose him.

"We thank him for his efforts at Chesterfield and wish him all the best in his new job."