Garry Hawkes, Chairman of Edexcel, today announced the resignation of Edexcel's Chief Executive, Dr Christina Townsend. The resignation will come into immediate effect.

In her resignation statement, Dr Townsend said, "The time has come for a new Chief Executive to be appointed to strengthen and build on the foundations and for me to seek a new challenge."

Garry Hawkes commented, "Christina Townsend leaves with our best wishes for her future and our thanks for her past contribution in bringing together BTEC and London Examinations to form Edexcel".

John Kerr, currently Director of Operations, has assumed the role of Acting Chief Executive.