Two high-ranking AFL officials have sensationally resigned due to “inappropriate relationships” with “younger women” in the industry.

Footy Operations Manager Simon Lethlean and General Manager of Commerical Richard Simkiss have left their roles at league headquarters.

The AFL says it relates to separate matters.

“They own their mistakes and do not want the work of the AFL impacted by their actions,” a “disappointed” AFL boss Gillon McLachlan said on Friday.

Lethlean has only been in the role for a few months.

Andrew Dillon has been appointed acting football boss.

Lethlean has since released the following statement…

“I today tendered my resignation to Gillon McLachlan and the AFL Commission.

“My resignation follows a wrong decision I made to have an inappropriate relationship with a female employee of the AFL. It is an action for which I am truly sorry for the hurt I have caused.

“The relationship should never have happened.  As a husband and a leader of this organisation it is up to me to set the example.  What I did was wrong.

“I failed my wife, my family, my friends, my organisation and football by making the decision I have.   I have hurt the people who are most important in my life and who I love. They have done nothing to deserve this. I am deeply sorry for all the hurt and embarrassment I have caused.

“My priority now is to do everything I can to repair the damage and hurt I have caused my wife and my family and I cannot do this while working in this public role. Regaining the trust and love of my wife and my family will be my total focus.

“I accept the consequences of my action and the need to step aside from the role and want to apologise to the AFL, the Commission, the Clubs, the AFL’s partners and all involved in the game.”