As a prominent Tasmanian environmental campaigner, Vica Bayley held the role for 10 years and lists the 2013 World Heritage-listing of Tasmanian forests, the campaign to stop the Tamar Valley Pulp Mill and the Tasmanian Forest agreement as highlights of his time.

Though not ruling out another run for parliament after the tight Nelson race which delivered independent Meg Webb to the upper house, Mr Bayley will now seek "values-aligned" opportunities in the private sector while continuing to volunteer with TWS and other organisations.

"It's with a mixture of sadness, pride, relief and guilt that I'll move on from formal employment with the Wilderness Society," Mr Bayley said in a statement. "I'm proud of what's been achieved in the decades I've been involved and step away satisfied with my contribution and knowing that the time is right to move on."

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"On reflection, contestation of the Nelson election was itself an acknowledgement that my time to move on had come. Narrowly missing out on that seat forced an active decision on my part and I've decided to take the opportunity to chart a new course.

"While these big environmental and community debates will dominate any reflection on my time with TWS, it is Tasmania's incredible environment itself and the people who love it that have inspired and sustained me."

The departure comes as the organisation continues involvement in Federal Court and Tasmanian Resource Management and Planning Appeal Tribunal fights against a luxury tourism proposal for Halls Island, located within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Tom Allen will continue as acting state campaign manager while recruitment processes are followed.

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