Kalezić comes to Wellington after eight years coaching in the top two divisions in the Netherlands, England, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. He was most recently at Saudi club Al-Taawoun, but spent just five games in charge.
"With the knowledge that I have in Europe and with my experience, I think I can develop the club - not only the squad, but also the club," said Kalezić.
"That is important if you are ambitious and want to settle down in the top six in the A-League."
One of the new coach's main priorities will be recruitment with just 17 of the 23 allowed players contracted for next season.
Glen Moss, Shane Smeltz, Roly Bonevacia and Jacob Tratt have departed, while midfielders Vince Lia and Alex Rodriguez are off-contract.
The club was also rocked this week by the departure of All Whites attacker Kosta Barbarouses with a year left on his contract, due to "non-football reasons".
But the well-connected Kalezić - who was consulted over the recent arrivals in the A-League of Dutchmen Youssouf Hersi, Romeo Castelen and Jordy Buijs - is confident of bringing high-quality players to Wellington.
"Yes, I believe that and I'm not scared about that," he said.
"I had contact with Kosta and I tried everything I could to keep him in the squad, but the problems were much bigger (than football) and it was not possible to change his mind."
"At this moment, I can't tell you a lot about (our recruitment). I think first we have to do some things - talk with some original staff members, talk with some players and from there make a starting point - which players we can sign, which players we cannot sign. These are important things so we can make a plan of what we will do."
Under his watch, the Phoenix's youngsters, such as James McGarry, Logan Rogerson and freshly signed teenager Sarpreet Singh should be given a chance to shine.
"I really like to work with young players.
"We have a culture in Holland to give a chance to young players. We invest a lot of energy to develop them. That will be the same here. I'm looking forward to working with the young, talented players in Wellington."
Kalezić will be assisted by Croatian-born Australian Rado Vidosic who boasts ten years' experience in the A-League with Brisbane Roar, Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory.
"Rado is an important link. He had many years as assistant at one of the best ever clubs in the league. He was twice an A-League champion so he brings huge experience with him. He is unbelievably important for the Phoenix, but also for me as a coach," said Kalezić.
And Kalezić has a simple message for the Yellow Fever fan-base.
"I came here because I believe in this huge challenge," he declared.
"I'm going to work very hard with all the people around me to develop the club and the performance of the club. My message to the fans is to support us from the first day because we're going to do everything to make our fans happy."
