State Sen. Ben Nevers will serve as governor-elect John Bel Edwards’ chief of staff, Edwards announced Sunday afternoon.

Nevers, a resident of Bogalusa, represents State Senate District 12, which includes Washington Parish. He is a Democrat who was unable to run again due to term limits; his seat will be filled by Republican Beth Mizell.

Nevers will also oversee Edwards’ transition as governor.

“I have known Ben Nevers for years, and he has been great to work with in the legislature,” Edwards said. “I’m proud to have him leading this effort to make our government more responsible to the needs of the people and deliver on the commitments I made in this campaign.”