Bernard Macleod is stepping down as managing director of UK programming distributor Channel 4 International (C4I).

Macleod is leaving to pursue interests in further education and will act as a media consultant. He joined C4I in 1998 from his own TV production outfit Cahoots.

"We will be sad to see Bernard depart, and wish him well for the future," said Janet Walker, director of business affairs at C4I's parent broadcaster, Channel 4. "Bernard leaves behind him a much stronger company."

Macleod joined the operation with a brief that included strengthening the brand outside the UK and raising distribution activities worldwide. During his tenure, sales revenues rose 50%.

"After two-and-a-half years working with my team here at C4I, I am very proud of the company we have built up," Macleod commented.