J. Brin Gibson, the top legal adviser in Gov. Steve Sisolak’s administration and an architect of a new cannabis regulatory regime that’s still getting off the ground, is leaving the post for a job in the private sector.

Sisolak announced the news in a press release on Thursday. He said an interim general counsel will be named in the coming days.

"Brin’s sharp legal mind, extensive experience in both the public and private sector, and respect for the rule of law proved absolutely invaluable in guiding our office through a successful legislative session and the first year of my Administration,” Sisolak said. “I couldn’t be happier for him and his family as they transition to this exciting new chapter.”

Gibson, who previously worked as head of the gaming division in the Nevada Attorney General’s Office, played a key role in designing a new Cannabis Control Board in the mold of Nevada’s well-respected Gaming Control Board. He chaired an advisory board that worked to craft the bill authorizing the new board.

His departure comes at a time of flux for marijuana regulation, however. The board is still being stood up and transitioned from the oversight of the Department of Taxation; an executive director has been publicly announced but not members of the board.

Marijuana labs recently have come under scrutiny for inaccurate reporting on product potency and for passing products with levels of contaminants that should have failed. Sisolak called for a secretive, special task force to investigate “potential corruption,” and license transfers were frozen in the fall.

State officials said they are looking forward to the full implementation of the Cannabis Compliance Board as they work to address a high rate of unfilled positions in the state’s Marijuana Enforcement Division.

Gibson said in a statement that it was an honor to work for Sisolak since the Democratic governor took office a year ago.

“I am proud of how many good things we have accomplished together to improve the lives of every Nevada family,” Gibson said. “I am grateful for the support the Governor and staff have provided me and my family as I embark on this new opportunity.”