The news comes just hours after the appointment of Carlos Raphael Moersen as Director of Football Operations was announced on Thursdays afternoon as he replaces sporting director Fabio Paratici.
Heitinga, who managed Ajax on two occasions in 2023 and 2025, has also held assistant positions at Liverpool and West Ham United since he retired as a player in 2016.
The club confirmed the news on their club website as Frank welcomed Heitinga to the side.
“John is a great addition to our coaching staff. His ability, personality and character will add huge value both on and off the pitch.
“He had an impressive playing career across Europe – including five years in the Premier League – and with the Dutch national team.
“As a former defender, that will be one of his main responsibilities on the training pitch, and he brings great coaching and management experiences from all levels of the game, which will really help us moving forward.”
He has been out of work since early November but now makes the switch to North London alongside first team goalkeeper Coach Fabian Otte who also spent time at Anfield under former manager Jurgen Klopp.
Spurs are currently 14th in the table, 11th in the Champions League, and were knocked out of the FA Cup at the weekend meaning Heitinga has his work cut out for him.