Bruce played for Durham University before joining Hampshire

Bruce, 28, took 119 first-class wickets for Hampshire after making his debut in 2003, grabbing a career-best 5-43 against Nottinghamshire in 2006.

He was a regular in the County Championship side in 2006 and 2007, and also played in the Friends Provident Trophy final defeat by Durham in 2007.

"It has been a decision that I have not made lightly," Bruce said.

"I have been gaining work experience in the City over the last three winters with the intention of developing a career for when I had finished playing as I was always conscious of the importance of preparing for life after cricket.

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"The recent work that I have done this winter has made me realise that the transition from sport into the working world is not as easy a process as I originally thought.

"I became aware that the longer I left this transition, the harder it would be for me to secure a career in exactly what I wanted to do - and I have been offered a fantastic job which is too good an opportunity to let pass by."

Director of cricket Tim Tremlett added: "Whether playing for one of our age group teams or the first XI, James has always given 100%.

"He has developed into being an extremely good opening bowler, highly regarded by batsmen across the country, and his determination and enthusiasm will be sorely missed."