PHOENIX — Kirk Adams, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey’s chief of staff, announced Monday he would step down after serving in the role for four years.

Adams said in a series of tweets that he was resigning to “return to the private sector” and play a couple rounds of golf.

I couldn’t be more grateful and more honored to have had this opportunity. Being @dougducey chief is the best job in the country and I’ll miss it. 2/4 — KirkAdams (@KirkAdams) November 26, 2018

I’m excited to return to the private sector, also looking forward to a round of golf or two 🙂 4/4 — KirkAdams (@KirkAdams) November 26, 2018

Later Monday, Ducey announced that Daniel Scarpinato will succeed Adams and Gretchen Conger will serve as deputy chief of staff.

Daniel @Scarpinato has been a key part of our success since day one. He’s built a reputation as a leader, collaborator and problem solver. I have every confidence in his ability to serve as my new Chief of Staff. 2/3 — Doug Ducey (@dougducey) November 26, 2018

Scarpinato worked as senior adviser on Ducey’s re-election campaign. Prior to that he was deputy chief of staff for communications and strategic planning.

Ducey thanked Adams for his service in a series of tweets, praising him for “serving four remarkable years” and “helping to push forward our agenda to solidify Arizona as a national leader for opportunity, jobs and economic growth.”

The governor's office will not be the same without Kirk — we will all miss seeing him at the office everyday. I’m grateful for his help in building an exceptional team that is ready to continue our work for Arizonans. 4/4 — Doug Ducey (@dougducey) November 26, 2018

J.P. Twist, Ducey’s campaign manager, also praised Adams in a tweet on Monday.

The Gov and the entire @dougducey team would have been lost without @KirkAdams steady hand and guidance over the years. A remarkable leader and even more remarkable man. https://t.co/axVUeETdh9 — J.P. Twist (@jp_twist) November 26, 2018

The governor’s office said in a statement that Adams’ last day will be Dec. 14.

The chief of staff helps the governor set policy and negotiate with lawmakers on budget and other issues.

Ducey was re-elected as Arizona governor in November, after beating out Democrat David Garcia.

Despite his statement, whether Adams will remain as a private citizen or return to public office was unclear. Adams’ name has been floated alongside Martha McSally’s for possible replacements in the U.S. Senate if Jon Kyl steps down in January.

Kyl was appointed by Ducey earlier this year to serve in Sen. John McCain’s seat after the late senator died from brain cancer in August.

Adams has a history of serving in state legislature. He was elected to the state House of Representatives in 2006 and served as House Speaker. He resigned in 2011 to run for U.S. House of Representatives but was defeated in the Republican primary by former Rep. Matt Salmon.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow @KTAR923