Tim Pawlenty's red-headed, sometimes irascible, deputy chief of staff is leaving to start his own public relations company.

The governor announced Wednesday his spokesman Brian McClung is leaving to form McClung Communications & Public Relations, LLC. He will direct MN Forward, an independent political fund supported by Minnesota businesses.

"Brian is best known as the public voice of our office, but he has been much more," Pawlenty said in a statement. "He's been one of my closest advisors during both terms and I greatly value his insights, loyalty and expertise. Brian is an integral part of our team and I know he will continue to have great success."

McClung, 37, joined Pawlenty's office nearly six years ago, first in the role of press secretary. He became communications director in 2005 and deputy chief of staff four years later. He managed an 11-person communications and outreach team and oversaw communications efforts for the administration. He makes about $103,000 a year.

"Working for Governor Pawlenty has been a great honor and the experience of a lifetime," McClung said. "Minnesota is a wonderful state and I've enjoyed the opportunity to do my small part working in this office to make it even better."

Bruce Gordon will be promoted to communications director and serve as Pawlenty's primary spokesman. Gordon has worked in the governor's office for nearly five years and was previously director of communications at the Minnesota Department of Commerce.

McClung will transition Monday to MN Forward, a new organization formed for a group of business leaders who want to have a say in the upcoming election. A recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling allows businesses and other groups to spend freely for or against candidates and campaigns.

The organization's leaders said they are working with Minnesota businesses to elect candidates, from both parties, who support policies that enhance job growth in Minnesota.

"Employers have a critical stake in Minnesota's future," said David Olson, president of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. "We work here, send our children to local schools, volunteer with local charities, support local businesses, and we value the economic opportunity and quality of life our state has to offer."