NICK Maxwell is headed back to Collingwood to take up a unique full-time role that will aim to unify the leadership approach of the Magpies' staff and multiple teams.

The 34-year-old is leaving his part-time leadership coaching role with Greater Western Sydney for the opportunity to work in Melbourne, and with the club he played 208 games for.

Maxwell has worked at the Giants for two seasons, but his young family remained based in Melbourne during that time, meaning he was often away from them.

He also had a game-day role this year as runner, as well as working with NRL team Melbourne Storm's emerging leaders.

Starting in October, the former Magpies captain will hold the title of leadership and culture manager, with his portfolio to extend across the club's AFL, VFL, AFLW and netball teams as well as entire staff population.  

He will also continue to consult at the Storm one day a week.

"The further development of leadership was identified by the Collingwood Forever review as critical," Collingwood football manager Geoff Walsh said.

"Nick was a fine player but an even better leader, someone who was able to bind teams together and drive them along.

"He has since worked with various organisations, including GWS and Melbourne Storm, in roles focused upon leadership and building teams.

"We feel, after three years away from the Holden Centre, Nick is perfectly placed to return. His expertise, brought to a role that includes all of our teams and staff, should be of tremendous benefit to our club." 

Maxwell captained the Magpies between 2009 and 2013, and retired in 2014.

The Pies have already appointed Matthew Boyd and Justin Longmire to their coaching panel.

They will join Nathan Buckley, Robert Harvey, Brenton Sanderson, Tarkyn Lockyer and Brad Gotch at the helm of the club in 2018, after the departures of Scott Burns and Anthony Rocca, and high performance manager Bill Davoren. 

"Nick is a wonderful leader (and has) brought a wide range of skills to the Giants," GWS football manager Wayne Campbell said.

"His experience, guidance and character have been crucial in the development of our leaders and broader playing group. 

"We wish him well in the next chapter of his career."