Birmingham have sacked manager Gary Rowett, the club have confirmed in a statement which said "supporters can rest assured that the decision has been taken with a strategic, long-term view and with the Club's best interests at heart."
Rowett, 42, took charge of Birmingham in October 2014 and leaves St. Andrews with the club seventh in the Championship and three points off third-placed Reading following a 2-1 win against Ipswich Town on Tuesday night.
An official club statement said: "Gary's contract, and those of his backroom staff - Kevin Summerfield, Mark Sale, Kevin Poole and Darren Robinson - have been terminated with immediate effect.
"This has not been an easy decision to make. The Board would like to thank Gary and his backroom staff for their efforts and wish them all the best for the future."
OFFICIAL: Birmingham City Football Club has parted company with Manager Gary Rowett. More details to follow. #BCFC pic.twitter.com/0pEe5Gitud
- Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) December 14, 2016
Rowett took charge of the Blues following an 8-0 defeat against Bournemouth that left the club 23rd in the Championship table. He oversaw 99 league games, winning 39 of them.
The statement added: "New owners Trillion Trophy Asia Limited (TTAL) remains determined to lead the Club to a bright and exciting future.
"Supporters can rest assured that the decision has been taken with a strategic, long-term view and with the Club's best interests at heart.
"An immediate replacement will be sought in order to afford the new manager the time to assess where the existing playing squad needs strengthening. The Board recognises the urgency required given that the transfer window will open at the start of January and funds have been made available.
"TTAL has been involved with the Club for more than 18 months and has reviewed all playing and non-playing matters during that period."