BBC sports editor David Bond is to leave the corporation after four years to join a PR agency.
Bond joined the BBC from the Daily Telegraph in 2009 but, with his wife expecting a third child, wanted a job with fewer travel commitments.
David Bond
He is to be a director with Milltown Partners, the strategic communications company set up by Paddy Harverson, the former director of communications at Manchester United.
In an email to staff, head of BBC Sport Barbara Slater said: “David has spearheaded our sports news coverage, contributing to a step change in the quality, range and impact of our reporting. His professionalism, insight and commitment to the role have been demonstrated time and time again not least during London 2012 and in delivering many exclusive stories and agenda-setting interviews.
“We are very sorry to see David leave but I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for the immense contribution he has made to sports journalism at the BBC. On behalf of everyone in BBC Sport, we wish him all the best for the future.
“The exact date of David’s departure is still to be finalised but the recruitment process will begin shortly to identify a new Sports Editor. I will update you further in due course.”
