The head of the Medical Council is stepping down from his position.

Bill Prasifka is to finish his term in late May to pursue other opportunities.

He was appointed CEO of the Medical Council back in October 2015.

Mr Prasifka will be taking up the role as executive director of the Medical Board of California.

A recruitment process will begin shortly to fill the vacancy of CEO following his departure.

A trained lawyer from the US, Mr Prasifka has been in Ireland since the late 1980s.

He has held a number of other high-profile posts - including Financial Services Ombudsman, chairman of the Competition Authority and commissioner of the Aviation Regulation.

Mr Prasifka held the post of Financial Services Ombudsman from 2010 to 2015 | Image: Leon Farrell/RollingNews.ie

President of the Medical Council, Dr Rita Doyle, said: "I want to thank Bill for his valuable contribution to the work of the Medical Council over the last five years.

"Bill has lead a team of committed and dedicated individuals who have supported the Medical Council in delivering on our statutory remit.

"He has played a central role in the council continuing to protect patient safety and supporting the medical profession in a transparent, respectful and fair manner."

Speaking about this announcement, Mr Prasifka added: "It has been a great privilege to have held the role of chief executive of the Medical Council.

"The council has a vital role in patient safety and in supporting doctors and continues to make a great contribution to the Irish health service."

"I would like to acknowledge the support of Medical Council President Dr Rita Doyle, and her predecessor, Professor Freddie Wood.

"Their dedication and commitment, along with the members of the current and previous council, to the work of the Medical council continues to inspire."