Cronulla Sharks chief executive Barry Russell has resigned after a tough year for the NRL club.

Russell will leave his position at the end of March, having been appointed in February last year.

The Sharks are almost salary cap compliant again after being fined by the NRL, although they are set to let a player leave before the season begins.

"It is with great sadness that I inform Cronulla Sharks members, fans and corporate partners that I have made the decision to resign from my role as Cronulla Sharks Group CEO," Russell said in a statement on Tuesday.

"I will depart the club early April after ensuring we are salary cap compliant for the 2019 season."

Sharks chairman Dino Mezzatesta thanked Russell, saying the board wanted him to remain at the club.

"Barry acknowledged it has been an extremely tough 12 months for both the club and for him personally, however, the board appreciates his efforts working with us to navigate through recent issues, to where we are now in a strong position on and off the field and can look towards a positive future," he said.

"It was not our choice to have Barry move on but we understand his reasoning, thank him for his service during a difficult time and wish him well in his future endeavours."

The Sharks begin their NRL season against the Newcastle Knights on March 15.