SAGE director David Clayton is stepping down from the board of the software giant.

Clayton, the Newcastle-based company’s director of strategy and corporate development, will leave the board at the next annual general meeting in February next year.

He joined Sage, currently celebrating its 30th anniversary, as a non-executive director in June 2004 before moving into his current role in October 2007.

“I have had seven most enjoyable years with Sage, a company I admire greatly and for whom I am very proud to have worked,” said Clayton.

“Having helped develop our business priorities and plan to refocus the business on growth, and with the execution of this plan showing real momentum, I feel it is the right time to step down from the board and begin to think about the next chapter in my career.

“I will work with my executive colleagues to ensure a smooth transition and I wish everybody at Sage every success in the future.”

Sage chief executive Guy Berruyer said: “David has made a great contribution to Sage over the past seven years and we are very grateful for his counsel over this period.

“He leaves with our thanks and best wishes for the future.”