Offaly Games Development Administrator John Leahy is to take a two-year leave of absence to lead new political party Renua.
The Kilcormac native confirmed to the Midland Tribune that he would be stepping away from his role for two years.
Leahy has been Offaly's GDA for the past 14 years, but the demands of his new role have forced him to choose between the two.
"It is a two year leave of absence," said Leahy. "I am out now for two years no matter what happens.
"I enjoyed my time. I was very fortunate that I had a job for the last 14 years where I never felt for one minute that I was going to work and I suppose it requires that.
"The job is very demanding. It is unsociable hours. I was dealing with clubs and the only time you can deal with them is in the evenings or the weekends, so from that point of view, you need to love it and have a passion for it."