Cracknell quits as Cordiant founders.(Andrew Cracknell leaves Bates UK)

Andrew Cracknell is stepping down as the creative chief of Bates UK as fears grow for its future under its embattled Cordiant parent.

No replacement will be named until the fate of the Bates network, reeling from a series of devastating account losses, has been resolved.

Cracknell is switching to a part-time role working on strategic issues with Toby Hoare, who runs the Bates European operation. He will also seek non-competitive work outside the agency.

Aris Theophilakis, the newly appointed creative director for Bates Europe, would be an obvious successor. But Hoare admitted: 'It's very difficult to make that happen at the moment.'

Cracknell, 56, said: 'I think it's time to move on. The job needs a younger man, someone who is not inhibited in their enthusiasm.'

His exit comes as Cordiant fights for survival after Allied Domecq's decision to relieve it of pounds 18 million worth of business. The brand assignments, which include Ballantine's whisky, Tia Maria, Tia Lusso and Malibu, are expected to be consolidated into Publicis, the drinks giant's other agency network.

The announcement plunged Cordiant into immediate crisis, casting doubt over its ability to publish its preliminary results and threatening the suspension of its shares.