Cullman County Republican Party President Waid Harbison is seen at the Cullman County Courthouse.

Cullman County Republican Party Chairman Waid Harbison will be stepping down after the June 5 primary to accept a marketing position in Atlanta.

Harbison, 24, will also leave his position as marketing director at the Cullman Parks and Recreation Department, effective May 23.

“I want to be on hand to see the election through and that point I will going to Atlanta to start in a new position,” Harbison said.

Alex Chaney, a candidate for Alabama House of Representatives, District 12, is co-chair of the Republican Party. He will not take over leadership of the party because of his campaign.

Harbison said he expects Kelly Duke, a former chair, to fill the remainder of his term, which expires in November.

“The executive committee of the party will make the decision, but that’s what’s been discussed after I gave my notice,” Harbison said. “This has been a great experience working within the party, discussing issues and strategies and meeting candidates both here at home and from across the state.”

Harbison began working with Parks and Recreation in 2009 while a student at Cullman High School. He continued to work at the department through college and in 2014 was named marketing director.

“Just from the time that I started with the department, mowing grass and working ballgames at night, it’s an amazing experience to see the growth in Cullman and the expansion of so many programs for the community,” Harbison said. “This job gave me an opportunity to grow and it’s an experience I will always appreciate. With all the programs and facilities it’s like marketing for eight different businesses.”

Beginning June 8, Harbison will take his experience into the realm of professional sports as marketing director for the Atlanta Gladiators hockey team.

“I know this will be another great opportunity to learn, to grow professionally,” Harbison said. “Cullman is a great place and I will be excited to watch what happens here in the next few years, too. We’ve seen so many advancements for the community and I think more will come.”

David Palmer may be contacted at 256-734-2131, ext. 116.