Monetary Authority Deputy Chief Executive Norman Chan has resigned, and will leave office in May.

Authority Chief Executive Joseph Yam hailed Mr Chan's efforts in the body's reserves management and international affairs, saying his departure is a great loss.

Mr Chan said his time at the authority has given him the most satisfying and memorable experiences in a public service career of nearly three decades.

"Now, after nearly 30 years in the public service, I have decided that this is the right time for me to take a break from the public sector and pursue other interests," Mr Chan said, adding he intends to study abroad.

Mr Chan joined the authority on its establishment in 1993, having served as a Government Administrative Officer since 1976. He was made Deputy Chief Executive in 1996.