David Frost, the Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, has said that he will quit his role at the organisation in 2011, after eight years in his current position.

His decision comes following a similar decision by Richard Lambert, head of the Confederation of British Industry, who will be stepping down early next year.

The BCC said that it would be beginning a "comprehensive search" for a new director general in the next few months.

Mr Frost said, "I was brought into the BCC to turn the organisation around, to build its profile and to increase the influence of the Chamber of Commerce Network. This job has now substantially been achieved.

"I have developed relationships with the new Government and the long awaited Spending Review has now been delivered - a long-term road map for re-balancing the UK economy.

"With these measures in place, I have agreed with the Board that I shall be leaving the BCC in the second half of 2011, giving them time to plan and manage the transition.

"What continues to impress me is the entrepreneurial spirit of businesses in this country. They do not seek hand outs but just want the freedom to create wealth and jobs. It has been a pleasure representing the best of British business."

Neville Reyner CBE DL, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, added, "David's contribution to the success and growth of the Chamber of Commerce Network has been considerable. His relentless focus on promoting the interests of UK business has been consistent throughout his time at the BCC, but perhaps it was most obvious during the height of the credit crunch, when his invaluable knowledge of the business community was highly sought after among politicians, policymakers and the media. He is a man with his finger on the pulse when it comes to knowing the mood of British business and his presence and leadership will be missed at the BCC."