Mr. Phillips' position has already been advertised with a closing date of August 18. He will leave his position by May next year.

Speaking last night, he said a final retirement date had not been decided yet but would have to be before he turned 56, in May 2000.

Pension laws allow civil servants to retire between their 55th and 56th birthdays.

"Several months ago I indicated to the Secretary of Cabinet that I would retire,'' he said.

"It just seems to make sense to let the position be advertised as soon as possible to allow for a smooth transition.

"My brief is to assist the Government in this transition period. I will continue to serve with all the energy I have done in the past.'' Mr. Phillips, married to Patricia with one daughter, Jennifer, said he had no initial plans for his retirement.

The former high school teacher and Postmaster General was appointed to the post in 1986.

The successful applicant would become the most senior civil servant in the Department of Tourism, reporting directly to Minister David Allen.

The post, which carries a $113,812 annual salary, also assumes responsibility for Bermuda tourism staff, both locally and overseas. And it covers supervision and coordination of all areas relating to tourism activities, including policy, marketing and strategic planning.