He was appointed in 2006 for a term of five years.
Commenting on his decision Lambert said: "Now is the right time in the political and economic cycle for me to hand over to a new director general.
"The CBI is in good shape, with much to do on behalf of its members. The new Government is in place, and is generating a huge range of policy issues which the CBI is getting stuck into. And the economy is moving into a new phase, in which business investment and trade will be the essential engines of recovery.
"I have no definite plans at the moment, but will be looking for interesting things to do."
CBI president Helen Alexander added: "The CBI has been privileged to have Richard as Director-General. As business was in the eye of the storm during the credit crunch and the recession, his experience and wise counsel proved invaluable.
"He is a wonderful advocate for UK business, his insight and good humour make him a great colleague, and planning his succession is important."
The CBI has appointed executive search specialists Saxton Bampfylde
