JEFFERSON CITY -- Mike Talboy, the highest ranking Democrat in the Missouri House, is taking a job with Burns & McDonnell as the firm's first director of governmental affairs.

Talboy announced on Monday that he would not seek a fourth term this fall, saying he was presented with "an opportunity that I could not pass up." Starting June 4, the Kansas City Democrat will serve as Burns & McDonnell’s liaison with local, state and federal officials in the support of the firm’s related business units.

"Mike has been an excellent representative for his constituents and Kansas City as a whole. With his grasp of the complex and important issues facing governments not only here in the Midwest, but around the country, Mike will help Burns & McDonnell be a more effective advocate for the solutions our clients need," Burns & McDonnell Chairman and CEO Greg Graves said in a prepared statement.

Talboy was first elected to the House in 2006 and has been the minority leader since 2010. He told The Star this morning that he will not be lobbying the Missouri legislature next year, although that could change in later years.

“I could not be happier to join Burns & McDonnell,” Talboy said. “The commitment they have to the state, our city, our communities and the people of Kansas City is without question. This is a company with endless potential and I am honored they have asked me to help play a role in building its future.”

The press release announcing Talboy's new job even quoted House Speaker Steve Tilley, a Perryville Republican.

"Mike has always been great to work with even when we disagree,” Tilley said. “He is a straightforward communicator and has always worked well with all sides of an issue to break through impasses and find consensus. Burns & McDonnell will benefit a great deal with his addition to their company."

Who will replace Talboy as minority leader is not yet known, although several Democrats indicated that St. Louis Rep. Jacob Hummel is the most likely successor.