Essendon football boss Daniel McPherson has handed in his resignation after four years with the Bombers.
McPherson told the Tullamarine club of his decision on Tuesday, and informed the players and staff on Thursday.
He will continue his role until the end of the year.
"This feels like the right time for me to conclude my tenure at the Bombers.
"I leave with confidence that the foundations have now been laid for a positive future. I'm proud of the role I've played in reshaping our football strategy, as well as our high-performance area, and I believe this Club is poised to succeed in a meaningful way over its next phase. The rebuild of our list around a young, talented core is exciting, and I have no doubt they'll achieve special things for the red and black in the years ahead.
"I'd like to thank the club, and the staff and players I've had the privilege of working with, for making my time here a rewarding experience. I wish the club well for the future."
McPherson joined the club following the appointment of Brad Scott as senior coach at the end of 2022. Scott was sacked earlier this year, leaving the Bombers on the hunt for a new senior coach. Dean Solomon took over as caretaker.
“During his time at the club, Dan has been instrumental in strengthening the governance and operational framework of our football department. He has led the development of our football strategy and reporting processes, helping establish greater accountability, alignment and rigour across the program," Essendon chief executive Tim Roberts said.
“Over the last 12 months, he also oversaw a significant transformation of our high performance area, appointing several key personnel and implementing a more integrated and cohesive operating model.
"I would particularly like to thank Dan for his leadership during the recent coaching transition. His calm and measured approach, coupled with his genuine care for people, provided much-needed reassurance and stability within the football department and the playing group during a time of considerable uncertainty."
Assistant coach Ben Jacobs and head of psychology and wellbeing Ben Robbins also departed the club this year, as did Travis Varcoe as the Indigenous player development manager.
