TRI-CITIES — Port Moody-Coquitlam MLA Iain Black is stepping down from provincial politics to become the president and CEO of the Vancouver Board of Trade.

Black issued a statement about his resignation today (Wednesday), stating that he informed Premier Christy Clark of his decision Monday.

“I have tremendously mixed emotions about leaving elected office,” he said in the statement.

“While excited about embracing the challenges ahead leading the Vancouver Board of Trade, I will really miss my colleagues and our incredible staff, and engaging with the people in the Tri-Cities even more so.”

Black thanked his family for their support, as well as members of the Tri-Cities community.

“It is the people of Port Moody, Coquitlam, Anmore and Belcarra who have twice given me the honour of carrying forth to Victoria their ideas, values, criticisms and aspirations for what our government can or might do to improve our community and our province. To them, I say a humble ‘thank you,’” Black said.

“I have always maintained that, despite the punishing schedule and the strain on one’s family, holding elected office is a privilege. I am passionate about the work and truly believe that, when done well and in good faith, it’s so very important for our society. I will always be grateful for these six years.”

Black was first elected MLA for the Port Moody-Westwood riding in 2005. He has served as Minister of Labour, Minister of Labour and Citizens’ Services and Minister of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development.

In March, Black was appointed parliamentary secretary for public transportation. He also serves on the cabinet committee for jobs and economic growth.

Prior to his foray into politics, Black served as president of both publicly traded and private technology companies.

Black will begin his Board of Trade duties on Oct. 3.

twitter.com/jennifermcfee