Blue Bird Corporation announced on Sept. 9 that Britton Smith has resigned from the position of president, effective Sept. 28, 2024. His removal from the board of directors is effective immediately.

The company cites the decision came down to "personal reasons" and notes their well wishes for Smith's future endeavors in their news release.

Blue Bird’s current chief executive officer Phil Horlock will assume the additional role of president to lead the company. The dual role will be old hat for Horlock, who served as president and CEO from 2011 to 2021 and was reappointed in May 2023.

The news comes just months after the company announced Smith would succeed Horlock as CEO by the end of September.

“It has been an honor to serve as president of Blue Bird,” said Britton Smith. “My decision to step down is driven by personal reasons and I need to focus on these important aspects of my life at this time. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our employees and partners for their support during my tenure.”

“On behalf of the board of directors and the entire Blue Bird team, I want to express our gratitude to Britton for his leadership and contributions to the company,” said Doug Grimm, chairman of the board. “We wish him all the best in the future.”