Tracey McDermott will be taking over as acting chief executive from 12 September while the search for a permanent chief executive takes place.
It is understood that the Treasury told Wheatley to go or they wouldn't renew his contract. Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said: "Britain needs a tough, strong financial conduct regulator. The government believes that different leadership is required to build on those foundations and take the organisation to the next stage of its development."
Wheatley has been at the head of the regulator for four years, establishing the FCA following the demise of the Financial Services Authority in April 2013.
Wheatley will continue to act as an adviser to the FCA board until 31 January 2016 with a particular emphasis on the implementation of the Fair and Effective Markets Review, which he co-chaired.
John Griffith-Jones, chairman of the FCA, said: “Martin has done an outstanding job as chief executive setting up and leading the FCA over the past four years.
“We owe him a lot and I and my board would like to thank him for his great efforts in setting up the organisation and for the contribution he has made to putting conduct so firmly at the top of the financial services agenda.
“We all wish Martin well and I am pleased that we will continue to benefit from his wisdom and expertise over the next few months.”
Wheatley said: “I am incredibly proud of all we have achieved together in building the FCA over the last four years. I know that the organisation will build on that strong start and work so that the financial services industry continues to thrive.”
