A state Liberal party has been sent spiralling into more turmoil, with a key leader quitting over disrespectful remarks about women.

Two days out from an annual meeting of MPs and party faithful, Victorian Liberal state director Stuart Smith has sensationally stepped down after a leaked message scandal.

"In the best interests of the party I have tendered my resignation to minimise distractions from the important task of winning the next election," he said in a statement on Thursday morning.

"I regret the comments and have apologised for them."

His sudden departure was set in train when The Australian published leaked WhatsApp messages from a head office staff group chat on Wednesday night.

In the messages, Mr Smith made disparaging remarks about the Liberal Women's Council and 76-year

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