Birch only joined Derby in June but is thought to have had differences of opinion with manager Billy Davies.

Birch previously held the same post with Chelsea when they were struggling with a large debt before the arrival of Roman Abramovich.

He moved on to Leeds, who were also in deep financial trouble, and helped them avoid administration.

His last job before Derby came at Everton but his spell lasted only six weeks, amid reports the board disagreed over some of his proposals to restructure the club's finances.

A brief Derby statement read: "Derby County Football Club today announced that Trevor Birch has ceased to be employed as its chief executive officer with immediate effect.