STEVE Ferres has quit as managing director of Bradford Bulls, the club have confirmed this afternoon.

The former Bradford Northern half-back, who has had a long career in the game as a player, coach and administrator, was appointed when Marc Green took ownership of the club in March 2014.

He was effectively Green’s right-hand man and largely responsible for player recruitment during the past three seasons.

Chairman Green, who is currently on holiday in Ibiza, last week issued a statement vigorously defending Ferres’ record on player recruitment.

But Ferres, who enjoyed notable success as an administrator at York City Knights and also served as chief executive at Wakefield and Castleford, has opted to resign.

Green said in a statement today that Ferres was due to retire at the end of the season anyway but brought forward his decision following the club's failure to finish in the top four of the Championship.

“It is with considerable sadness I must announce the resignation of Steve Ferres as Managing Director from the club,” Green. 

“Steve has agreed to conduct a full and proper handover to his successor of which the process of finding one starts immediately.

“Steve has served the club since March 2014, when he took up the post and has worked tirelessly to rebuild Bradford Bulls. 

“I for one have been grateful for the time we have worked together and found Steve to be a man of honour and integrity.

“Steve had advised me of his intention to retire from the game of rugby at the end of the season, although he obviously hoped it would be under more enjoyable circumstances.  

“He also cited as one of his reasons for bringing the decision forward the failure to make the play-offs and the need for change. 

"As someone who has always led not followed he feels change has to start at the top and this further fueled his decision. 

“Steve has served the club well and never asked for recognition. The press he has received over the last few months has been at times unwarranted and more importantly unfair.  

“Steve brings the curtain down on over 45 years’ service to the sport as a player, coach, administrator and he will be and should be missed by the game. 

“I hope he enjoys retirement and I for one wish him and his family well.”

Players and staff were expected to be paid today but huge doubts continue to surround the club’s financial state.

With Green still out of the country and Ferres now gone, Robbie Hunter-Paul has been left in charge of operations at Odsal.