Rich Skrosky resigned Tuesday after three seasons as Elon coach to join Butch Davis' staff at FIU.
Skrosky was 7-27 in three seasons while leading Elon's transition into CAA Football, where the Phoenix were 4-20 in conference games.
"This was an unexpected development," athletic director Dave Blank said. "Rich was offered an opportunity that will best allow him to pursue his career goals."
Blank said Elon will begin a national search for a new coach immediately.
Davis was named the fourth head coach in FIU history on Nov. 15.