Top-placed Hawthorn are seeking a new football general manager for the second time in less than five months after illness forced the resignation of James Fantasia.
Fantasia joined the Hawks in March after his predecessor Mark Evans became the AFL’s new head of football operations.
But, after spending the past few weeks on sick leave, Fantasia has given up the job to focus on his recovery.
“Given the stage of the season I didn’t want to let the club down, but unfortunately I have had to make the difficult decision to leave due to health reasons,” Fantasia said.
“Under medical advisement, I will take some time to focus on my recovery before looking to return to work.
“Whilst my health condition is not of a critical nature a full recovery is my priority.”
Hawks chief executive Stuart Fox said the club were disappointed to lose Fantasia but respected his decision and wished him well.
Not only does Fantasia’s exit come just six weeks before finals but at a time when the Hawks are trying to stave off a huge bid from Greater Western Sydney for their star forward Lance Franklin.
Head of coaching and development Chris Fagan, who had slotted into Fantasia’s job while he was on sick leave, will continue to act in that role.
The blow for the Hawks comes just days after Collingwood’s football director Geoff Walsh announced he was quitting his post.