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Racing Industry Transition Agency (RITA) chief executive John Allen is stepping down from his role at the end of the year.

"After five years as chief executive it is time to begin the search for a new leader to oversee the transition to TAB NZ," Allen said.

"This was a difficult decision, but with the racing reforms underway, it's timely for someone else to lead the TAB and deliver the revenue growth to support a sustainable racing industry." 

RITA chairman Dean McKenzie acknowledged Mr Allen's leadership since becoming chief executive in 2015 during which time there have been important investments in the TAB.

"The innovations overseen by Mr Allen have provided the TAB with a solid foundation for growth to support racing and sport in New Zealand, and the Board is optimistic the initiatives will deliver the returns the industry needs in coming years," McKenzie said.

"We now need to focus on lifting profits, increasing distributions to racing and improving the betting experience for Kiwi punters. Achieving the outcomes set out in the current reform of racing will play an important part of securing a positive future for racing."

Allen paid tribute to the team at RITA for its support and effort to deliver innovations that he said will have long and lasting benefits for racing.

"It has been a great privilege to hold this position and lead an incredible bunch of people.

"I also want to acknowledge the huge number of people from across the industry, in the codes, club volunteers, the owners and trainers for their support.

"There is significant opportunity ahead for the industry and I am genuinely confident of the future."

Allen will stay on until Christmas to support RITA through the next phase of industry reform and to oversee a transition to a new chief executive.