INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Republican Gov.-elect Eric Holcomb has picked his former boss as the top staffer for his incoming administration.

Holcomb announced Monday his selection of Earl Goode to become chief of staff in the Indiana governor’s office. It’s the first prominent appointment by Holcomb, who replaces Vice President-elect Mike Pence as governor Jan. 9.

Goode was chief of staff to former Gov. Mitch Daniels for more six years. Holcomb was a deputy chief of staff under Goode before Daniels tapped Holcomb as state Republican Party chairman in early 2011.

Goode is a retired executive at GTE, the company that preceded Verizon. Holcomb earlier this month named Goode as a co-chairman of his transition committee.

Holcomb says Goode provides a “steady hand and voice of reason.”