Paul Downton has left his position as managing director of the England and Wales Cricket Board with immediate effect.
The 58-year-old began the role in February 2014 and oversaw the reappointment of Peter Moores as coach and the group-stage exit at the World Cup last month.
He also played a substantial role in Kevin Pietersen's axing from the England squad. Incoming ECB chairman Colin Graves has recently opened the door for the batsman's return.
Both Graves and chief executive Tom Harrison have promised major changes at the top of English cricket, and the sword has fallen on Downton.
His responsibilities will be covered by the newly-created Director of England Cricket role, which will focus on "delivering a world-class performance environment for all formats".
Announcing the change, Harrison commented: "The England Cricket Department needs to deliver performance at the highest level and our structure needs to be accountable for reaching the standards we aspire to. The new role we are putting in place will deliver an environment where world class performance is at the heart of everything we do."
On Downton, Harrison added: "Paul is a man of great integrity who has worked extremely hard to make a difference at the ECB. He joined at a very difficult time, but under his leadership the Test team have made significant strides. We thank him for his hard work, drive and determination and wish him every success for the future.
"The touring team in the West Indies are aware of the changes. The process for appointing the new role, with sole responsibility for the England set-up, will begin immediately."
Downton kept wicket for England in 30 Tests between 1981 and 1988.
Joe Fish
