Alun Wyn Jones is to take over from Ryan Jones as the Ospreys captain this season.
The Lions and Wales lock, 24, made his debut for the region in September 2005 and has gone on to become a key figure, making 101 appearances.
"To be appointed captain is one of the memorable moments in your career, it's a fantastic honour," said Jones.
"It's the start of a new chapter in my rugby career I suppose, and in my personal development."
Swansea-born Jones has enjoyed winning two Magners League titles with the Ospreys along with the EDF Cup in 2008.
His performances at regional level earned him a call-up to the Wales squad winning his first cap during the 2006 tour to Argentina.
Jones has since gone on to collect 40 caps and was part of the 2008 Grand Slam team and last year he captained the 20-15 win against Italy in Rome.
It was to prove a fruitful year for Jones as he was also selected for British & Lions three-Test tour to South Africa, in which he featured in all three Tests.
"It's probably my biggest challenge to date, looking forward there's a lot in my career that I want to achieve," he added.
"Being captain of the regional side, and representing not just Swansea like I aspired to, but also the other famous clubs that make up the region, it's a big responsibility.
"I want to play a small part in what we know we can achieve at the Ospreys, and that ambition has always been there."
Former captain Ryan Jones gave his backing to Jones saying he is handing over the captaincy after three years to focus on his Wales career and getting in the squad for next year's World Cup in New Zealand.
"It's not a position that anyone relinquishes lightly, but we've had lengthy discussions about it over the summer and it's the best move for the Ospreys and for Wales moving forward," he said.
"I've always said that captaincy is a seat that you are keeping warm for someone else. I've done it to the best of my ability at all times, we've had highs and lows, and I've thoroughly enjoyed it.
"I think that Alun Wyn is a fantastic person and will make a great captain. He's only 24 so I can see him doing the job here for a long, long time."
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