Brian Loughnane has announced he is stepping down as the Liberal Party's federal director, saying now is an appropriate time to appoint someone new to lead the organisation into the next election campaign.
Mr Loughnane said he flagged the decision with party elders prior to the 2013 election when the coalition regained government from Labor.
He cited recent changes in the party's parliamentary leadership and the consequent need to review campaign planning as reasons for his decision.
Mr Loughnane is married to Peta Credlin, the chief of staff to former prime minister Tony Abbott who was toppled by Malcolm Turnbull in September.
"I believe now is an appropriate time for the party to appoint a new federal director to lead the organisation into the next campaign," he said in a message to Liberal supporters on Thursday.
Mr Loughnane worked with four Liberal leaders - John Howard, Brendan Nelson, Tony Abbott and Mr Turnbull - during his 12 years in the job.
"Each has contributed much to our party and our country and I am grateful for their support and friendship," he said.
Mr Loughnane intends returning to the business sector and being a grassroots member of the Liberal Party.
He will step down by early next year.
