has been director of general benefits and credits since September 2008, having previously served as both CIO and COO since joining Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in 2004.

"Steve is taking up a new role as chief operating officer for the IT firm, Kelway, which will combine his skills, experience and leadership in running an organisation with his background in IT," said an HMRC spokesperson.

"This is clearly a great opportunity and we wish him every success."

Lamey will be formally leaving HMRC and taking up his new position on 16 July 2012.

Upon his departure, Stephen Banyard, director for personal tax, will take on a caretaker role for Benefits and Credits. However, HMRC could not provide a timeframe for appointing a permanent successor to Lamey.