Allen Greene is officially out as Auburn’s athletics director, and the university has released a statement about the decision.

“Auburn Athletics Director Allen Greene notified University President Dr. Christopher Roberts this week of his decision to step away from his role leading the Tigers in order to pursue other professional interests. Auburn Athletics Chief Operating Officer Marcy Girton as Acting Athletics Director. University leadership will convene to appoint an Interim Director of Athletics who will serve while a national search begins for Greene’s permanent replacement.”

Greene, who has been in the middle of the struggle between Auburn boosters and coaching staffs, has only 5 months remaining on his contract.

Auburn recently changed presidents as Chris Roberts took over this year, and Greene’s contract is set to expire in early 2023. He served in the same capacity at the University at Buffalo from November 2015 until his arrival at Auburn.

Greene, who has been at Auburn since January 2018, was criticized by some in recent months for his relative lack of response during the discussions about Bryan Harsin’s future with the Tigers, and the fact that the football team struggled mightily down the stretch last season.