Christie Hefner, daughter of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, is stepping down as chairman and CEO of Playboy Enterprises Inc.

After a 20-year run at the helm of her father’s adult entertainment company, the 54-year-old said she plans to serve on additional corporate boards and appear more frequently as a speaker and television commentator.

Announcing her departure, Christie said, “just as this country is embracing change in the form of new leadership, I have decided that now is the time to make changes in my own life as well”

Hugh Hefner issued a statement, saying, “I asked Christie to step up as president when the company faced serious financial difficulties more than two decades ago. She has worked tirelessly to expand the company’s franchise, and, as a result of her efforts, the company today has more consumers and fans than at any time in our history. Of course, as her father, my first priority is Christie’s happiness. While I will miss her leadership here, I believe that she will go on to achieve even greater personal success.”

Christie says she will stay on as CEO until January 31, and will remain with the company until a replacement is found.

More photos below, plus video of an interview with Christie Hefner talking about Playboy’s transition in the digital age.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nr4zq2W8hP4[/youtube]

photos: Wenn

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