Jon Macdonald, CEO of online marketplace Trade Me, has announced his intentions to step away from the company in approximately six months.

Macdonald has been with the company since 2003, spending more than a decade as CEO.

“I’m very proud of the business we’ve built together and all that we’ve accomplished.

“But after leading Trade Me for over 10 years, it’s time for me to take a rest and then do something new.

Macdonald noted the company has a “long a bright future”, and that it was the right time to “pass the baton to someone with fresh eyes and a full tank of gas.”

“Jon has done an enormous amount to grow and shape Trade Me over the last 15 years,” said David Kirk, chairman of Trade Me.

“When Jon started, Trade Me was a company of around 15 staff, still finding its place in New Zealand.

“It’s now a company of over 600 people and is recognised as one of New Zealand’s most loved and trusted brands.

“We’re hugely grateful for the enormous amount of personal energy he’s put into this work here, and we wish him the best.”

The company’s board will work with Macdonald over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.