Just months after the succession plan between Alastair Clarkson and Sam Mitchell fell to pieces, Hawthorn announced that they are in the process of finding a successor for Kennett.

Kennett's second stint as president started in 2017 and was only meant to last for three years.

But he decided to stay on for another three-year term to guide the club through the COVID-19 crisis.

His current term is due to expire at the end of 2023, but Kennett wrote a letter to members on Thursday advising them of the succession plan.

Hawthorn's board has acted as the nomination committee in identifying and recommending to members its next president and board members.

No time frame has been set on the succession plan, but it could be as early as next year.

"So, the time has come for the board to start the process of my succession and your next president," Kennett wrote.

"We will require the committee to make its final recommendation of their preferred candidate to the board by 30 June next year.

"On the agreement of the board of their recommendation, and the acceptance of the nominee, and his or her availability to commence work, we will then decide when I hand over the baton.

"So, life is about changes and opportunities, and with our new coach, the club in such a good and strong position to move into 2022.

"Now is the right time to plan my succession and transition in an orderly way. We are starting that process now."

Clarkson was originally set to coach on in 2022 before handing over the coaching reins to Mitchell.

But after weeks of speculation and mixed messages, Clarkson eventually decided the situation was too messy and stepped away from the club.

Australian Associated Press