THE AFL has begun its search for a new general manager of football operations to replace Simon Lethlean, but has set no timeline on when the position will be filled.

Acting CEO Ray Gunston said that expressions of interest were being sought with the AFL hoping to be able to make an appointment before the end of the year.

The AFL has stated it is seeking candidates from outside the AFL following Lethlean's resignation last Friday and expected applications to be lodged by the end of July.

"The AFL is committed to a thorough process, ensuring it can unearth the best candidate, man or woman, to lead the game's football operations department across both the AFL and AFLW," Gunston said.

Football operations managers at club level are seen as the most likely candidates for the position although the AFL is expected to cast its net wide.

The AFL football operations manager oversees talent pathways, umpiring, coaching, ground operations and player welfare as well as laws of the game and the Match Review Panel.

AFL Legal Counsel Andrew Dillon is acting as interim general manager of football operations in the meantime.