They began the season under the management of Jackie McNamara, who was on a long term contract until 2017.[1] On 26 September 2015, following the club's defeat to St Johnstone, McNamara was relieved of his duties as manager of the club, however he still remained an employee of Dundee United.[2] The following day McNamara and his backroom staff Simon Donnelly, Darren Jackson and Craig Hinchcliffe officially left the club.[3] Assistant youth coach Dave Bowman became caretaker manager.[4]
On 14 October, United appointed former player Mixu Paatelainen as head coach.[5] His first game in charge was versus Heart of Midlothian on 18 October.[6] Paatelainen left his position as manager after United's relegation to the championship was confirmed in May 2016 with coach Gordon Young placed in charge for the remaining three games of the season.[7]