Dunleavy chief of staff leaving for ConocoPhillips job

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) - Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s chief of staff, Ben Stevens, is leaving his post to take a job with ConocoPhillips Alaska.

Dunleavy’s office made the announcement Wednesday, and it was confirmed by Natalie Lowman, a spokesperson for the energy company. The change was announced in the midst of a legislative session.

Lowman said Stevens’ responsibilities will include government relations, village outreach, community investment, media and advertising and management of the company’s pipeline business, including its interest in the trans-Alaska pipeline system.

The governor’s office said Stevens’ last day with the administration will be announced soon and that Deputy Chief of Staff Randy Ruaro will be acting chief of staff until a permanent selection is made.

Dunleavy in July 2019 announced that Stevens, a former state lawmaker, was taking over the role of chief of staff from Tuckerman Babcock.