But his new job is to try to drag Carlisle away from relegation to the National League.
They are 24th in League Two, five points from safety, and he is their third boss of the season after the departures of Williamson and Paul Simpson, who left in August.
The Cumbrians have won only twice at Brunton Park all season, and brought Williamson’s reign to an end after a humiliating 5-1 defeat at home to Swindon Town on Saturday.
Williamson’s exit came despite bringing in 11 new players in the transfer window, backed by the club’s American owners, the Piatak family.
But sporting director Rob Clarkson has acted quickly to bring Hughes in for the final 18 games of the season, starting at Grimsby Town on Saturday.
“Mark’s experience and stature in the game speaks for itself,” Clarkson told the club’s website, external.
“He is someone who will instantly command respect from all staff and players and I am really excited to work with him.
“The players we have here will suit the way he wants to play and I’m sure our fans will really get behind him and the team in our remaining 18 games.”
