Kevin Keen has left his role as Colchester manager with two matches of the season remaining.
The former Reading assistant coach only took over The U's in December last year in what was his first permanent managerial role after previous spells as caretaker boss at Macclesfield and West Ham.
He was nominated for the League One Manager of the Month award in March after a run of just two losses in six matches.
However, too much work was left to be done and he leaves the club second from bottom in the table and with relegation to League Two confirmed following last weekend's 3-0 home defeat to Burton.
A statement on the club's website read: "After a meeting with the owner, Robbie Cowling, over the future direction of the club, Kevin Keen has decided to leave Colchester United with immediate effect.
"Kevin has worked tirelessly to try and turn around the fortunes of the club this season.
"We wish Kevin all the best in his future career.
"David Wright has agreed to take the team for the remaining two games of the current season."