Kelty Hearts manager Kevin Thomson missed out on the Kilmarnock job after being interviewed by the board.
The former Rangers star was on the club's shortlist and spoke to the board – but the Rugby Park chiefs ultimately chose Derek McInnes, opting for an experienced head in their bid for promotion to the Scottish Premiership.
Thomson is highly regarded as an up-and-coming manager – and he's doing a great job at League Two side Kelty.