LONG-TIME Collingwood director of sports science David Buttifant has quit his post at the club.

The Magpies wasted little time after their shock elimination finals loss to Port Adelaide in announcing Buttifant was moving on after 13 seasons.

It has been strongly speculated that Buttifant will be reunited with Mick Malthouse at Carlton.

Blues fitness coordinator Justin Cordy has already signalled his intention to leave once the club's season winds up.

Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert said Buttifant would be a big loss.

"David is recognised as an innovator in his field and has helped drive the professional standards of the club over the last 13 years," Pert said in a statement.

"He has been a very popular member of the Collingwood family and certainly someone who can say that he left the organisation in a much better shape than when he arrived.

"As part of on-going discussions this year with David, both parties agreed that it was the perfect time to seek out a new challenge. David leaves with the total support and best wishes of everyone at the club."

Buttifant was an integral part of Collingwood's 2010 premiership triumph, while he was also lauded for his work in helping to take the Magpies to Grand Finals in 2002, 2003 and 2011.

"It was a privilege and a pleasure to spend so many years at the club," he said.

"Sharing in such a wonderful time in Collingwood’s history, working with some outstanding people and making so many good friends is something I will always cherish."

Twitter: @AFL_BenGuthrie