Burt vacated the role to take up the new position of general manager of people, culture and integrity.

Wright, who joined the Hawks in 2007, had served as their list and recruiting manager since 2011.

The role of Hawthorn football manager has become something of a launching pad in recent years with Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan and Gold Coast CEO, and former AFL football operations boss, Mark Evans both former title holders.

Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves said Wright was the perfect person to assume the role.

"Graham has been an influential member of Hawthorn's football department for some time," Reeves said.

"He has worked alongside our coaches, players and administration staff since 2007 and was a logical appointment given his experience.

"This is an opportunity for Graham to progress his career at Hawthorn but equally an exciting time for the club to be able to appoint someone with Graham's knowledge.

"We look forward to Graham leading our football department as we continue the hunt for our next piece of silverware."

Mark McKenzie, Hawthorn's former recruiting and special projects manager, will replace Wright as the head of the club's recruiting department. He now has the title of Hawthorn national recruiting manager.

The Hawks long-time strategy and innovation manager David Rath is also expected to depart the Hawks and join the AFL's football operations department as their new AFL coaching, innovation and education manager.

Meanwhile, Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett said Burt's appointment to his new role reflected the importance the club was placing on the development and wellbeing of its people.

"After good governance, the wellbeing of our employees is our most important priority," Kennett said.

"When developing the club's new vision, it became apparent that we needed to place a greater emphasis on our people and to have an executive lead responsible for this.

"Jason has been with the club for 12 years and his extensive experience, passion and knowledge of the development and culture of our staff combined with his teaching background makes him the perfect candidate to lead this area.

"His new role will include the professional development of all employees across the administration and football sides of our business and we look forward to Jason taking on this new responsibility."

The Hawks granted Rioli leave during the pre-season to spend time with his father as he recovered from a heart attack.