PIERRE, S.D. (KELOLAND) — Governor Kristi Noem is looking for a new commissioner of economic development.

She announced Friday afternoon that Chris Schilken plans to step down. He will serve as deputy commissioner going forward.

“At Chris’s request, we have withdrawn his appointment papers. We encourage anyone interested in the role of GOED Commissioner to reach out to my office,” Noem stated in a post on X.

The governor appointed Schilken last June, after the resignation of Steve Westra became effective last May.

Westra was a member of Noem’s transition team after her 2018 election. She appointed Westra as commissioner that December.

Westra’s final annual salary was $203,248.64. Schilken’s current annual salary is listed at $147,092.13.