The prolific filmmaker has exited the follow-up to the hit comedy due to scheduling conflicts, but New Line still plans to shoot this film this fall.

Horrible Bosses 2 has just lost its boss.

Seth Gordon, who directed the hit 2011 comedy and was set to helm its sequel, is exiting the project, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter. Gordon informed castmembers Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis and Charlie Day on Wednesday.

Gordon, who also directed the hit comedy Identity Thief earlier this year, cited scheduling conflicts with his upcoming ABC television comedy The Goldbergs and several other projects.

PHOTOS: 'Horrible Bosses' Premiere Red Carpet: Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman

New Line is now seeking a director to step in for Gordon, and interest is strong. The plan remains to shoot the film this fall.

The first Horrible Bosses,   co-starring Jennifer Aniston and Jamie Foxx,   became a surprise hit in summer 2011, grossing $209 million worldwide.

E-mail: Matthew.Belloni@thr.com

Twitter: @THRMattBelloni