Enough was finally enough for Manly NRL chief executive Graham Lowe who quit his post on Thursday in the face of failing health.

A series of medical tests convinced Lowe that his body was no longer up to the rigours of running an NRL club, the 64-year-old - who has had a long battle with coronary issues - vowing to devote his time to his recovery and family.

He will remain with the club in a limited capacity until June, with the Sea Eagles beginning an immediate search for a replacement.

Lowe was forced to resign as Manly coach in 1992 due to serious heart problems, while a blood clot in his leg almost cost him his life in 1991.

"It is time for me to give myself every opportunity to recover for the sake of my four children and my wife Karen and to be a little selfish myself," Lowe said in a statement.

"This is the second time I have had to stand down from an important position because of health issues at Manly and I am heartbroken about that.

"But at 64 I can't tempt fate anymore and I can't do the job Manly require of me like I am and like I am likely to be for some time."

Lowe underwent a double heart bypass in December 2009 after collapsing at Auckland Airport, with doctors clearing him to resume his role with the Sea Eagles in 2010.

But his health deteriorated to the point where doctors in both Sydney and Auckland advised him to take a prolonged break from work following recent tests.

Lowe - who coached the Sea Eagles from 1990-92 - returned to the club as chief executive in 2009 after Grant Mayer quit following months of infighting between factions aligned with the club's co-owners Scott Penn and Max Delmege.

He stabilised the club amid off-field distractions such as the assault case involving star fullback Brett Stewart, with Sea Eagles chairman Penn acknowledging the difficult hand Lowe was dealt.

"Graham came in during difficult times and helped steady the organisation with his calm approach and excellent knowledge of the game," Penn said.

"His linking of the front office with the football operations has been outstanding."

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