Nine director of news and current affairs, Darren Wick, has stepped down from his role, departing the media business after a 29 year tenure.

The news came in an all staff email from director of programming, Michael Healey, who thanked Wick for his contribution to the Nine News brand. "Wickie has had an enormous impact over that time, as producer, EP of Today Show, EP at ACA and then to head up a news division at a time of great transformation," he said.

Wick himself expressed gratitude for his time at Nine and praised the talent and dedication of his colleagues. "I am stepping down as the National Director of News and Current Affairs and leaving NINE. This is my 13th year in that position and my 29th year at the Network," he said.

"For all the gifted reporters, producers, camera operators, link operators, editors, graphic designers, chiefs of staff, News Directors, Executive Producers and presenters in our editorial teams, there are hundreds more people around the country who support us through all the other parts of this business," he said. "I cannot thank everyone enough for making NINE a truly great place to work. And making it a lot of fun, as well."

While he did not specify his future plans, Wick indicated a desire for a lengthy break from journalism. "I don't want to use the word 'retiring' because I don't know how to sit idle. But I am going to take a very long break from what has been four decades of working as a journalist. I'm tired and need a rest," Wick said.

Nine has not yet given details of Wick's replacement.