It appears the decision was taken for him, although it was announced as a parting of ways by mutual consent.
"It is with regret that Barnsley Football Club and first team manager Simon Davey have mutually agreed to part company," read a club statement.
"We would like to place on record our sincere thanks for all the hard work Simon has put in during his two-and-a-half tenure as manager and wish him every success in the future."