Vodafone New Zealand external affairs director Tom Chignell is leaving the company, after 14 years with the telco giant.

A stalwart in the industry, Chignell's service to the company dates back to 2000, when he was appointed the role of General Manager Commercial Development.

But after 14 years, Chignell is seeking pastures new, and will graciously leave the company on September 30.

While Chignell's out of office response says he left the company on March 31, 2014, the director will work out his notice at home for the coming five months.

Chignell has held a number of high-profile roles at the company, including General Manager Corporate Affairs, with a responsible for championing Vodafone's reputation with stakeholders, including government, regulators, media, and industry.

According to Chignell's LinkedIn page, he lead Vodafone's engagement with telecommunications regulator and with the industry through the NZ Telecommunications Forum, while also performing the role of director on the Telecommunications Carriers Forum.

Chignell's affairs appear to have moved onto Liesbeth Koomen, Legal and External Affairs Director at Vodafone New Zealand, who is cited as the main form of contact on his email responder.

When approached for comment by TechDay, Chignell confirmed the rumours, insisting 2014 was the year “for a change”.

But when asked of what comes next, the veteran played his cards close to his chest - insisting; “Not sure what comes next yet…