Lund has been in the role for two years and has overseen a challenging period following the change in government last year that resulted in a freeze on marketing spend and the loss of almost 300 jobs within the organisation.

Recently he has been working with Matt Tee, permanent secretary for government communication, to help coordinate a review of government direct communication and the future role of COI. The outcome of the review is expected soon.

Lund, meanwhile, is leaving to launch a new venture in the private sector, according to a statement. He said: “I can’t escape the fact that I am at heart someone who wants to run their own business more than anything else.”

Cabinet office minister Francis Maude said: “Mark has done an excellent job as COI chief executive and his skills will be missed in government. I wish him the best of luck with his new venture.”