The search was beginning today for a new chief executive for Bradford Vision.

Sharmila Gandhi yesterday announced her resignation after two and a half years to move to Spain with her family.

Today Bradford Chamber of Commerce, which has two members on the board, said: "Spain's gain is Bradford's loss."

Roland Clark, the Chamber's president, said: "She has been a tremendous ambassador for Bradford, defending our corner at difficult times and bringing together different communities."

Her successor in the job, which last time attracted a salary of £75,000, will be advertised and a special appointments panel set up.

Bradford Council's Labour leader Ian Greenwood, a board member, said "vision and drive" were needed for the successor whatever the background.

He said: "We need someone who can get across the dynamism that needs to be Bradford in the future. The vision is very important in this role." He said he was sad to see Sharmila go. "I think she has done an excellent job," he said.

Council leader Margaret Eaton said commitment to the Bradford district was the vital asset for the next chief executive.

She said: "We need someone who recognises the value of partnerships and someone with the skills to work with a wide range of people from different places with a common agenda of delivering a better Bradford."

Earlier this year, Bradford Vision, set up in 2001 to promote the city and encourage community harmony, was praised by the Government for being one of the best performers in its field.

Mrs Gandhi says that achievement was the highlight of her career as the Vision's second chief executive - a position she held since April 2002.

It has been responsible for setting up 65 neighbourhood schemes with their own action plans.

It also co-ordinates the Schools Linking project where schools in different areas twin up to swap classes to learn about different cultures.

Mrs Gandhi, added: "They are identifying problems, identifying solutions on the ground and that is leading to safer neighbourhoods, healthier places to live, getting people into jobs and people being trained."

Mrs Ghandi, said she loved the job so much she would be jealous of her successor.

She said: "It is hard work with long hours but I loved every minute of it. I shall be jealous of who takes over as it a wonderful opportunity to make a difference."

Bradford Vision, with headquarters in Little Germany, now has 30 employees and a board which includes local politicians, businesses and the public and private sector.

Mrs Gandhi added: "The chief executive has to be up for a challenge, enthusiastic, dynamic and prepared to work with different sectors."

On going to Spain, she said it would be a "marvellous opportunity" and her daughter Krisha, 12, would see more of her mum."For the first time in my life, this is not about a career, but about a life choice. I am giving up the career path I had always envisaged for what I hope will be new and exciting opportunities."