Club bosses have thanked Mowbray and said it was a 'difficult decision' to take. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: “We are now focused on identifying the right candidate and we will continue to support our coaching team and players throughout the interim period.”
The club has confirmed Mike Dodds will 'lead the first team’s training and match preparations until the process to appoint a new Head Coach has concluded.'
A club statement read: "Sunderland AFC has this evening parted company with Head Coach Tony Mowbray. The Club would like thank Tony for the positive contribution he has made throughout the past two seasons alongside his assistant Mark Venus, who also departs.
"Both will always be welcome back at the Stadium of Light and we wish them well for the future."
The Black Cats are next in Championship action against West Brom at the Stadium of Light on Saturday after their recent 1-1 draw with Millwall at The Den.
Here, though, we take a look at the early runners and riders to replace Tony Mowbray at the Stadium of Light:
5. Slaven Bilic
The former West Ham manager is now managing in Saudi Arabia which probably rules him out owing to wages. He does, though, have vast experience in the Championship and Premier League. Photo: Yasser Bakhsh
6. Dean Smith
Dean Smith has a promotion on his CV with Aston Villa and was last at Leicester City. He remains an outside shot at 25/1 according to some bookmakers. Photo: Justin Setterfield
7. Neil Critchley
The former Liverpool coach comes highly rated but has struggled during his recent Championship stints and is now back in League One with Blackpool after a poor stint at QPR. His appointment by Sunderland is unlikely. Photo: David Rogers
8. Leam Richardson
The former Wigan Athletic man was harshly sacked by the Latics last season but is highly rated as a coach. The bookies have him at 20/1. Photo: George Wood