Clugston Group chief executive Stephen Martin is leaving the company later this year to take over as director general at the Institute of Directors.

Above: Chief executive Stephen Martin

Stephen Martin has been boss of the privately owned group since December 2006 and achieved fleeting fame in 2009 by taking part in the first series of Channel 4’s business TV programme Undercover Boss.

The search for a replacement has now begun, the company said.

John Clugston, chairman of the Clugston Group, said: “Stephen has been a most effective and loyal CEO and, whilst we are sorry to see him leave the group, we are delighted he will be taking up such a prestigious appointment. Once Stephen’s successor has been selected a further announcement will be made by the group.”

At the Institute of Directors, Stephen Martin takes over from former-journalist-turned-PR-man Simon Walker.