GIANTS Assistant Coach James McDonald will finish with the club at the end of the 2014 season.

McDonald, who joined the GIANTS as a player and assistant coach in 2011, has indicated he wants to pursue a change of career in agribusiness and step away from AFL football.

Chief Executive David Matthews thanked McDonald for his contribution to the club over the past three years.

"James was one of our foundation players and coaches and we will always be grateful for what he has done for the development of the GIANTS," Matthews said.

"He showed a lot of courage to come out of retirement as a player and then take on a full-time coaching role and he's been a tremendous asset to this club.

"James and his wife Annabelle and their children leave with our good wishes and will always be friends of the GIANTS." 

Coach Leon Cameron said McDonald had played an important mentoring role for many young players.

"James has developed into an excellent coach and has the respect of our entire playing and coaching group," Cameron said.

"He has told us he wants to pursue a change of career and take a step back from AFL football and we wish him and Annabelle and the family all the best."

McDonald said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time at the GIANTS. He has worked as midfield coach over the past two seasons.

"It's been an honour to be part of this club as a player and a coach. It's been a great opportunity for myself and my family and one of the most satisfying things I have done in football," he said.

"I want to thank the GIANTS for giving me the chance to continue my football career and wish everyone associated with the club every success for the future.

"I have no doubt the club has a very bright future and I will follow its progress with a lot of interest."

McDonald played 13 games for the GIANTS in 2012 for a career total of 264 after joining the club from Melbourne. He won the Melbourne best and fairest in 2006-7 and captained the club in 2009-10.