Academy boss Mark Smith has been placed in caretaker charge of Chesterfield following the sacking of Dean Saunders.
The Welshman was axed as Spireites manager on Saturday evening following the club's heavy 4-0 defeat at home to Swindon Town.
Chesterfield have now moved to appoint Smith, who has been a part of the coaching staff at the Proact Stadium since 2013, on a temporary basis.
Next up for the out-of-form League Two side is a meeting with Walsall in the FA Cup second round on Saturday.