ESSENDON has moved fast to replace departing high performance manager John Quinn, with the club successfully poaching West Coast Eagles head fitness coach Stuart Cormack.

The highly-respected specialist coach was the Bombers' primary target when looking to find a replacement for Quinn, who resigned last Monday but is set to see out the season.

The club released a statement regarding the appointment of Cormack, who will return to his native Victoria following the conclusion of the season to take up his new role.

"We are delighted to be able to get him to the club," club CEO Travis Auld said.

"He has been at West Coast for eight seasons and in that time they have made the finals six times, played in two grand finals and won a premiership.

"Stuart has been responsible for a fitness program which has seen the Eagles earn a reputation as one of the competition's hardest running, best prepared teams.

"Prior to West Coast, he spent four years as strength and conditioning coach at the AIS.

"Essendon is very lucky to have had the services of John Quinn for the past decade and we are fortunate to be able to secure someone of the calibre of Stuart to replace him."

Essendon midfielder Brent Stanton said while it's sad to see Quinn leave the club after 10 seasons, there are exciting times ahead for both Quinn and the improving Bombers.

"John has been here for 10 years and has been a big part of all the players' careers," he said.

"He's done one-on-one individual work with their technique and fitness, so he got up and spoke to us but he doesn't want to make a big deal out of it.

"It's exciting for him as well as the football club with the change, and he's looking at other opportunities outside this footy club.

"It is exciting, developing as a football club both on and off the field.