Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) chief executive John Lee has stepped down from the role in a decision described by chairman Bruce Baird as "unexpected".
"We are disappointed that John has decided to leave the organisation after successfully leading it through a period of significant challenges and internal reform," Baird said in a statement. "We hope to have a new chief executive in place in the first quarter of 2013 and John will be involved in ensuring that the right candidate is secured for this vital role."
No reason was given for Lee's decision. He has been chief executive for two years.
Baird said it will be "business as usual" during the recruitment process.
"John will continue to work with TTF's deputy chief executive Trent Zimmerman on key issues as we head into 2013 with a clear focus on the federal election," he said.
