Beard leaving Edinburgh for Dragons
Beard joined the capital outfit from New Zealand side Bay of Plenty, in the early stages of the 2013/14 season, and made his debut off the bench against Ulster that same year.
He has since represented Edinburgh on 41 occasions, 24 of which have been starts, and has scored ten points through two tries.
The centre – who played in seven of Edinburgh's European Challenge Cup games en route to, and including, last season's Final – will join Newport Gwent Dragons for the 2016/17 season.
"My time at Edinburgh has been really good; I've made great mates and it's a great team environment to be involved in," said Beard.
"Over the last few years we've been heading in the right direction, and I believe we are again this year. It's good to have been a part of it, especially throughout last year's European campaign, and it's been a pleasure to work with the coaches.
"Hopefully I can get some decent game-time before the end of the season, and finish my time at the club on a high."
Head Coach Alan Solomons said: "Sam has been a valuable squad member over the past three seasons.
"He is a first class bloke and a good team man. We wish him all the best in his new challenge."
