Hawthorn appointed former full-forward Jason Dunstall as the AFL club's interim chief executive.

Dunstall, who was part of the Hawthorn board which this week sacked incumbent coach Peter Schwab, will work alongside outgoing chief executive Steven Leighton.

Leighton announced in June he would quit at the end of the season.

Hawthorn president Ian Dicker stressed Dunstall's appointment was a temporary one, as the club was still searching for Leighton's replacement.

"Given his role as a director and understanding and relationship with current management, administration and team, the board felt that Jason was an excellent choice as interim CEO," Dicker said.

"His primary focus is football and he will work with Steven to ensure a smooth transition as the club goes through a rebuilding phase on and off the field.

"From a board perspective, he is the best prepared person for the job."

Dunstall, 39, is one of Hawthorn's greatest former players.

He booted 1,254 goals in 269 games from 1985-98, captained the club for the last four seasons of his career and played in four premierships.

Dicker said the board was aware Dunstall might face several potential conflicts of interest given his various roles in the media.

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