Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) General Manager and CEO Richard Ssrles says he will step down from his post in mid-January 2015, completing four years at the position.
Sarles also served as interim general manager for eight months prior being formally appointed in January 2011.
In a letter to WMATA employees dated September 24, 2014, Sarles noted he was retiring to spend more time with family. He added, "i want you to know how rewarding it has been to have worked with all of you. Much has been accomplished, thanks to you; much remains to be done which I know you can do. I wish each of you a safe and successful journey through life."
WMATA Chairman Tom Downs said the authority will launch a nationwide search for a successor.
Prior to WMATA, Sarles served as executive director of New Jersey Transit from 2007 to 2010.