Brown, a former Colchester captain, assistant and caretaker manager, was given the nod to take over at Colchester after breaking records at Essex neighbours Maldon & Tiptree.
With Non-League Steps 3 to 6 curtailed for the second successive season, Brown has been able to take the reins at the League Two strugglers on an interim basis
Former Manchester City and West Ham United midfielder Kevin Horlock has stepped up to succeed Richard Wilkins at BetVictor Southern League Needham Market.