Retirement Letter to Boss

Writing a retirement letter to your boss can be tricky. Most likely, you have had a lot of interaction with this person. Whether the relationship was positive or negative, a formal letter of retirement is the professional way to end the working relationship. Use the letter to highlight the optimistic and avoid topics that might lead to your leaving the organization on a negative note.

Format and Content:

Use the retirement letter to boss format to give your formal resignation, the date of your last day, and any commentary or contact information that is appropriate based on the relationship. Keep the tone of the letter professional, even if your boss seems more like a close friend. A letter of this type may find its way into an official file, so gushy and over-the-top are not appropriate. Be genuine and sincere. If you cannot think of many positive things to write, keep the letter brief and focused.

Sample:

This retirement letter to boss sample is from an employee who has mixed emotions about leaving the company. The employee takes the time to articulate her appreciation to her boss for the years of guidance. The relationship is clearly founded on mutual respect and friendship. Because of this, the employee offers to help in any way she can, including by telephone after she has officially retired from the company.

Dear Mr. Fowler,

I am writing to inform you of my decision to retire from Allen Group International. My last day will be on September 29, 2013. I have enjoyed working for you tremendously, and it is with part joy, and part sadness, that I give you this formal letter of resignation. The joy is for the expectation of things to come as I enter my twilight years; the sadness is in leaving such a wonderful company and the inspiration people who fill its desks and halls.

I have enjoyed working for you over the last 10 years. Your management style is more than effective; it is influential and empowering. You taught me the value of managing from a mentor’s perspective. This lesson has served me well, both professionally and personally. I will carry the lessons you taught me as I continue in life’s journey. I am sure that every time I apply one of your life principles, an image of you, always upbeat and positive, will fill my mind.

I realize we are in the middle of a very important project and I have no intention of leaving you stranded. I am more than willing to help you during the transition phase. I have already sent a letter of the position requirements to the human resources department. I will make myself available to assist in interviews and new-hire training. In addition, I have drawn up a plan of action for my staff in the event a replacement for my position is not hired by the end of the month.

My husband and I are planning to travel the United States over the next several years. Regardless of the distance, I am only a phone call away. Please feel free to call me for information related to any of our current or past projects. I will help you to the best of my ability. You may reach me on my cell phone at (555)-555-5555. If our schedules permit, I would love to treat you to lunch before I go as a personal thank you.

Sincerely,

Colleen Swanson

Ms. Colleen Swanson

Sr. Product Manager

Allen Group International