Auckland Business Chamber chief executive, Michael Barnett, says he will step down after 25 years in the role.
Michael Barnett is stepping down as chief executive of Auckland Business Chamber. Photo: RNZ Pacific/Christine Rovoi
He would not comment on speculation former National Party leader Simon Bridges is in the running for the job.
Barnett said it is the board's role to appoint a new chief executive.
"I am in discussion now with my board around succession, I've looked at my own life and what I've contributed so far and that is time for me to find a replacement and we're in that process."
Barnett said they are not short of candidates.
"Part of that is shoulder tapping and part of that is communication, most of us have very good networks and we use those networks to identify replacements. The role of selection is not mine as chief executive, it's the board's role."
It is not known when a successor will be named.