UPDATE 1-Pfizer general counsel resigns

(Adds details, CEO statement)

NEW YORK, March 11 (Reuters) - Pfizer Inc (PFE.N: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Tuesday that its general counsel, Allen Waxman, is leaving the company for personal reasons.

The world's largest drugmaker said managing director David Reid will assume Waxman's duties on an interim basis while the company searches for a permanent successor.

Waxman, 45, who took over as general counsel when Jeff Kindler became chief executive in August 2006, will remain outside counsel to Pfizer through a transition period, the company said.

"Allen and his team have been strong advocates for Pfizer, securing a number of important legal decisions that are significant for our business and our future," Kindler said in a statement.

Waxman had been with Pfizer since 2003. (Reporting by Bill Berkrot; editing by Jeffrey Benkoe)