UPDATE 1/17/13 @ 12 p.m.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- The executive director of the West Virginia Democratic Party announced Thursday he's stepping down from his post this spring.

Derek Scarbro was appointed to the position back in 2009, but he's been part of the Democratic Party staff for more than nine years.

“I wanted to give the Party leadership time to find a replacement and to help provide a smooth transition by announcing my departure months in advance,” Scarbro said. “I have greatly enjoyed my time here helping candidates run for office and working with dedicated West Virginians across the state.”

According to a news release, Chairman Larry Puccio will be making an announcement about the new Executive Director in the near future.

“Derek has been an invaluable asset to us at the headquarters,” current Party Chairman Larry Puccio said. “It’s not an easy job juggling all of the politics, managing a staff that grows and shrinks with each election, plus all of the fundraising and the budgeting, but Derek has served me and past chairmen with professionalism and dedication. We will miss him, but wish him well.”

Scarbro will help with the transition before leaving in March.

Party Chairman Nick Casey announced Thursday that Derek Scarbro
will replace the retiring Tom Vogel as executive director.

Vogel is retiring at the end of March.

The 28-year-old Scarbro currently serves as the party's deputy
executive director.

Scarbro joined the party's administrative office in August 2003
and has served in several capacities, including the party's field
organizer during 2006.

He is a former president of the state's Young Democrats.