NORTHERN Ireland director of the CBI, Nigel Smyth, is to stand down after 25 years in the post - and 26 years working for the leading employers' organisation.
Mr Smyth announced on Wednesday that he will retire in August this year, having seen the economic landscape in the north "reform" over his period in office.
"In the 1990s the CBI took important leadership roles in economic development, in developing north-south trade and improving business co-operation across the island, as well as in encouraging and supporting the peace process.
"In latter years, the focus has turned to influencing the Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly to create an environment in which businesses can prosper and are encouraged to invest and create jobs."
Mr Smyth said he had been fortunate to have worked alongside many of Northern Ireland's leading companies and entrepreneurs on a diverse range of policy issues.
And, while progress had been achieved on many, "significant challenges" remained.
"Recent announcements have the potential to move Northern Ireland on to a new prosperity trajectory - with a new political agreement and a commitment to reduce corporation tax to 12.5 per cent in April 2018," he added.
"Through engaging with our members we have worked with them to share their learning and insights, helping develop a more confident and ambitious business community which will create tomorrow’s jobs."
The CBI intends to begin a recruitment process to select a successor to Mr Smyth in January.
