Lausanne, Switzerland (My Sportsbook) - The International Olympic Committee announced Friday that Giselle Davies, the director of communications, has retired after six years on the job.

Davies played a vital role during her time with the IOC, relaying important information to the media, most notably on cases involving doping, and most recently at the 2008 Games answering questions for the organization about China's record on human rights and related petitions for protests.

"I have enjoyed six fun, fascinating, and eventful years and am proud of what the communications team has achieved," said Davies. "Beijing was the most phenomenal high to leave on; these Games and their build up presented challenges that really only come along once in a career. Now is very much the right time for me to start a new chapter, both personally and professionally. I will leave the IOC after the Beijing 2008 debrief towards the end of this year and then enjoy some down time before exploring options for 2009 and beyond. I wish the IOC and the Olympic movement all the best for continued success."

She worked closely with IOC president Jacques Rogge.

"Giselle is an accomplished communications professional, said Rogge. "The IOC, its leadership, members and staff, have benefited greatly from her counsel and leadership and we wish her all the best as she moves on to enjoy new and different challenges."