Dillon,31, is moving to Washington, D.C., with his wife, Jennifer O’Malley Dillon, who was recently appointed executive director of the Democratic National Committee.

Culver announced that Charles Krogmeier, 59, the director of the Department of Management who served as Culver’s deputy when he was Secretary of State, would be his new chief of staff.

Dillon has served as chief of staff since his appointment in December 2006 after managing the governor’s 2006 election campaign.

“Patrick Dillon has been an invaluable member of our team for more than three years, and I cannot thank him enough for his service to the people of Iowa. Most importantly, I appreciate his personal friendship and trusted advice,” Culver said in a statement. “I’m sorry to see him leave Iowa for now, but Patrick and I have always said that we married up, and I fully understand he needs to be in the same city as his better half. I wish him all the best as he begins a new chapter in his career during this exciting transition to a new administration.”

Krogmeier will begin his new job immediately. Dillon will serve in an advisory role through a transition period.