Sir Ronnie Flanagan is to stand down as Chief Constable of the RUC next year.
"The time is approaching when Ronnie Flanagan will go," he said today.
He could remain Chief Constable for another two years, but today signalled plans to leave once the first contingent of officers graduate and start duty with the new service next Spring.
Recruits to the new police service of Northern Ireland due to begin training on Sunday.
He said he was "absolutely committed" to the changes in the police force.
"The programme of change we are now well embarked upon is going to be never ending, possibly 10 years. Clearly I am not going to be in post to see all these changes in their end state," Sir Ronnie said.
The first meeting of the board which will oversee the future policing arrangements is due be held in Belfast next week.
It replaces the Police Authority of Northern Ireland and will appoint Sir Ronnie's successor.
PA