Lord Tony Hall is stepping down as the BBC director-general.
The 68-year-old executive - who took on the role in 2013 - has reached the "hard decision" to leave the broadcaster this summer, and he confirmed the news in a message to staff on Monday (20.01.20).
With the BBC facing a mid-term review of its 11-year charter - the agreement between the organisation and the government setting out governance, funding and recognising the importance of editorial independence - in 2022.
Hall suggested one person should lead the BBC through both that process and its renewal five years later.
In an email to staff, he suggested the BBC is in a "much stronger place" than when he joined.
He said: "It feels a very different organisation - more innovative; more open; more inclusive; more efficient; more commercially aware. And a BBC that\'s on cracking creative form.
"You all have my thanks and admiration for the part you\'ve played in that success."
He added that the corporation is "precious" to the UK and still holds teh "gold standard of impartiality and truth".
David Clementi - the chairman of the BBC board - will now look for a new director-challenge, and it is said the position will be open to both internal and external candidates.
Clementi hailed Hall as a leader with "integrity and passion for our values".
Following the announcement, Culture Secretary Nicky Morgan added: "Thanks to Tony Hall for the service he has given to the BBC, including the last seven years as DG.
"He\'s made a huge contribution to public service broadcasting in his career. In this ever changing broadcast landscape the next DG will need to build on Lord Hall\'s success."
