Cuomo administration Press Secretary Caitlin Girouard is making a long-planned departure on Friday after accepting a new job in January. 

Girouard came to Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office after working in the office of Sen. Amy Klobuchar. She also worked for Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, a Hudson Valley Democrat and Long Island's Steve Israel. 

"It's been the honor of a lifetime serving Governor Cuomo and this administration alongside the hardest working people in government for the past 2.5 years. I'll forever be proud of the work we've accomplished together for the state of New York," she said in a statement. 

"Last year, after working in the administration for two years, I began looking for new opportunities in the private sector. After a thorough search, I accepted a job offer on January 26th. ‎While I’m saddened to announce Friday is my last day in the Administration, I will always remain a supporter from afar, wishing my colleagues all the success in the world as they continue fighting COVID and building a better future for New Yorkers." 

“Caitlin is a world-class, top-flight communications professional who is well respected in New York, Washington and beyond. She’s been a real rock for our press shop, especially during the past year fighting the pandemic, and we wish her nothing but the best in her next chapter," said Cuomo spokesman Peter Ajemian. 

Meanwhile, Cuomo advisor Gareth Rhodes, whose portfolio included vaccine distribution and COVID-19 testing, will return to his role as a deputy superintendent at the Department of Financial Services. 

Press aide Will Burns, meanwhile, will be heading to law school and has taken another role in the administration. 

“Gareth graciously agreed to temporarily put aside his duties at the Department of Financial Services and join the Task Force, in which he worked night and day for a year, and is now returning to his normal duties in the administration," said Cuomo senior advisor Rich Azzopardi. "Will informed us he intends to attend law school next year and is seeking another position in the administration while he prepares for the LSATs.”