Torquay United general manager Geoff Harrop has left the club after 19 months of involvement.
Harrop becomes the third member of staff to depart following secretary Tim Herbert and head groundsman Chris Ralph out of the door.
Harrop, the Gulls’ former Head of Youth, played a key role in attracting owner-chairman Clarke Osborne to the club.
Osborne said: “It is with real regret that we make this announcement. Geoff was material in introducing me to the club and took up the job of its General Manager in March 2017.
“Many have known Geoff much longer than me, but in the comparatively short time we have known each other Geoff has provided honest energy and endeavour and remained loyal to the club and to me. I value these attributes above all others and I am personally sorry that Geoff has decided to end his journey with the club.
“I am sure that Geoff will flourish whatever his future course and I appreciate his eagerness for new challenges. I and the entire team at Plainmoor say thank you and wish him every success and happiness in the future.”
Harrop added: “It was a difficult decision for me, made harder by the great bunch of people at this brilliant club and a chairman who has supported and encouraged me from my first day in the job. I know that I leave the club in a far better organised and secure position than when I arrived, and I wish everyone connected with Torquay United every success, both on and off the field.
“I leave a club full of hope and ambition and with an attainable vision of a sustainable future in the football league, in a new stadium and with a thriving academy. It’s time for a new challenge for me and time for lasting success for Torquay United.”