Thelwell has been at Wolves for more than 11 years, first as Academy manager, then head of football development and recruitment, before becoming sporting director in 2016.
In August last year, Thelwell was appointed to the Wolves board of directors, a role he will now relinquish as he and his family move to the USA so he can take up a new position at the MLS club.
Wolves chairman Jeff Shi said: “Kevin has excelled in his role and has helped us build exceptional teams throughout Compton, in the Academy, recruitment, medical and analysis departments.
“The role of a sporting director is much broader than most people think, with a variety of different complexities and challenges, and without a doubt Kevin has fulfilled the expectations of the board and I over the last three-and-a-half years.
“While there is of course natural sadness to see Kevin depart, his desire to embark on a new chapter was something we discussed openly together and we all wish him the best of luck in his new role.
“Every departure is a chance to build an even stronger team, and I will assume Kevin’s roles and responsibilities while we take this opportunity to review our structure and make sure we are as efficient as we can be, and built for future success.”
Thelwell said: “To work at Wolves for the length of time that I have has been both a pleasure and a privilege.
“When I first took over as sporting director, we were on the brink of being relegated to League One, and when I look at the progress made and where the club is today I am proud to have played my part.
“I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at the club, and of course the fans, for making the club what it is today - I am sure there are many more great times ahead and I look forward to watching and supporting from a distance.
“It was always going to take something special for me to leave Wolves and I feel very lucky to have been offered such an exciting new challenge for both my family and I in the United States.”
