The chief executive of IDA Ireland, Barry O’Leary, is to step down from his role once a successor is in place.

Mr O’Leary has said he would be pursuing other opportunities outside of the organisation.

He said the last few years have been difficult and demanding, and he paid tribute to his colleagues for what he called their “relentless commitment”.

Mr O ‘Leary, who is stepping down as head of the IDA, said Ireland was entering 2014 in a far stronger position than in recent years.

“These will be my final set of results as chief executive of IDA as I intend to pursue other opportunities outside the organisation as soon as my successor is in place,” he said.

“I wish to thank everyone, inside and outside the organisation, for their kind support during my time in the most fulfilling and stimulating of roles.”

Jobs Minister Richard Bruton said the results show 2013 was a record year for foreign direct investment.

“This is the third year in a row that jobs growth has exceeded previous records,” he said.