"Having RJ on the team has been a true asset," said County Commission Chairman Richard Oden in a released statement. "His assistance with the transition and taking this organization to a higher level of quality customer service has greatly benefited us all."

Hadley was appointed to the job by the BOC in early January after managing Oden’s successful campaign for county chairman. Some highlights of Hadley's tenure include securing $2.7 million in HUD funds in the Neighborhood Stabilization program for foreclosed home rehabilitation and steering $250,000 of federal stimulus money to the county for the summer youth jobs program.

"It's been a pleasure having RJ as Chief of Staff and I have appreciated his high level of integrity and dedication," said Commissioner Oz Nesbitt. Commissioner JaNice Van Ness said "RJ's sense of diplomacy and dedication will serve him well in his future endeavors."

The BOC has no immediate plans to fill the chief of staff position and is not planning to appoint an interim chief of staff, according to spokesperson Holly Lafontaine. The duties will be split up among BOC staff including Holly Bowie, the legal affairs manager, County Clerk Jennifer Rutledge and their administrative personnel.

The chief of staff serves as the liaison between commissioners and chairman and department heads, among other duties.The position was separated from its Director of Public Affairs duties when Hadley was appointed and given to former Chief of Staff Julie Mills, who resigned in July. Hadley reportedly had an annual salary of $70,000.