Flanagan confirmed his departure to the Northern Daily Leader on Monday afternoon after 16 months in the role.

In a statement released by NIF chairman Tim Coates to the media on Tuesday morning, Flanagan explained he felt it was time for a change.

“I have appreciated the opportunity to be General Manager of Northern Inland Football however it’s time to give someone else a go,” Flanagan stated.

“I’d like to thank the NIF board for their support and guidance, all the club presidents, coaches and volunteers I’ve had the pleasure to work with, and most of all I’d like to thank Howard Stubbs and Jamie Campbell for everything they do for football across the largest geographical zone in NNSWF, often under very challenging circumstances.

“I intend to stay involved in the game, even if it just means going back to being a football dad for a while.

“I look forward to seeing some of you at Premier League games this season.”

Flanagan plans on taking a break to reassess the next chapter of his professional career.

He was appointed as general manager in October 2015 following a stint as Tamworth Regional Council’s business and events manager.

Flanagan has also spent a long part of his career working in the media, primarily in radio where he was an announcer and later general manager of 2TM/92.9FM in Tamworth.

His decision comes on the eve of the new Northern Inland Premier League season, scheduled to kick-off on Saturday.

The Northern Inland Football board meets on Wednesday night and will plan to determine a path forward.

The general manager position is likely to be advertised within days.

Coates acknowledged the contribution Flanagan made during his tenure.

“I personally thank Gavin for his cheerful disposition, good communication skills and dedication to this demanding and tough role. Sports administration is not and never will be easy, he handled the task admirably,” Coates said.