The chief executive of online travel group Wotif.com has resigned to take a job in another industry.

After five years as company head, Robbie Cooke is expected to leave the company at the end of 2012, Wotif.com said on Tuesday.

Chairman Dick McIlwain said Mr Cooke was stepping down to pursue an opportunity outside the travel industry.

A search has begun for a new chief executive, Mr McIlwain said.

“We are targeting an appointment around the end of this calendar year and we are confident that we can seamlessly transition to the new CEO with Robbie’s support,” he said in a statement.