WDBJ News Director Kelly Zuber says that after 34 years at the station, she is retiring.

Zuber said that she is taking early retirement in part because the recent change in station ownership made it a good time to make a career move.

“Changes are coming, so the change in ownership seemed like a good time to step away and pursue new things,” she said.

Gray Television bought WDBJ earlier this year from Schurz Communications, which had owned the station since 1969.

Matt Pumo, WDBJ’s new general manager, said that he understood why Zuber saw the corporate changeover as a good time to make a move.

“I understand her reasoning,” said Pumo, “You have to tip your hat to her. She is obviously the fabric of what this place is. She cares deeply about this station.”

Pumo said that the news director’s job will be advertised nationally and that in-house candidates will be considered.

Zuber's last day at the station is May 6th.

H/T Roanoke Times