Essendon Football Club has today announced that General Manager of Football Daniel McPherson has tendered his resignation after four seasons with the Bombers.

McPherson informed the Club of his decision on Tuesday and announced it to staff and players at The NEC Hangar on Thursday morning.

McPherson will continue in his role until the conclusion of the AFL men's season.

Essendon Football Club CEO Tim Roberts said McPherson was a high calibre individual who leaves behind a strong foundation at the Club.

"Dan is an experienced football manager and administrator who has made a positive contribution to our football program and the broader Club," Roberts said.

“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.

“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.

"Dan is highly regarded internally and externally for his professionalism, diligence, strong values and character and we wish him well for the future."

McPherson said the timing was right for his decision.

"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."

The Club will now take some time to assess the football structure and senior roles within it, in conjunction with the current process to appoint its men's Senior Coach.