DAVID Thornton, chief executive of Visit Isle of Wight, has resigned. 
He was appointed as the founding chief executive of the tourism board in August 2012.
Mr Thornton, who will leave on January 26, said he wanted to focus on other activities and new opportunities.
He said: "With the completion of plans for the 2018 season, I decided this was the right time to step down to pursue new projects and activities.
"My wife and I have no plans to leave the Island, this is our home, and we have many friends here.
"It has been a great privilege to lead Visit Isle of Wight, I passionately believe in the work of the organisation and its talented and hardworking team.
"As for me, I still have a long list of things I want to achieve in my life, and whilst this was a really difficult decision to make, I'm looking forward to creating new adventures and opportunities."
In the interim, Simon Dabell will assume the role of chairman and chief executive.
Mr Dabell said: "On behalf of the board, I would like to express my sincere thanks to David. His legacy is a strong destination partnership, a professional team delivering award winning results, and some highly innovative and creative campaigns over the years. We wish David all the very best for the future".