Michael Hockney, D&AD chief executive, said: "Chris has made an outstanding contribution to the education and professional development team and to the growth of D&AD's global programmes, particularly the Global Student Awards and the Global University Network."
Thompson, who had been in the role since 2001, said: "I've worked with a great team and some of the most inspiring people in design and advertising. I also helped to launch and grow pioneering industry-focused education programmes for creative students, graduates, tutors and professionals.
"These programmes are set to go from strength to strength in 2007 and I look forward to being involved in them from a new perspective."
D&AD is a not-for-profit organisation representing the international design, advertising and creative communities.
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