DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa’s top insurance regulator has resigned. Gov. Terry Branstad’s office announced Monday that Iowa Insurance Commissioner Nick Gerhart’s resignation will be effective Dec. 23. Deputy Commissioner Doug Ommen will serve as interim insurance commissioner.

Gerhart helped oversee the insurance and securities market in Iowa, including the sale of health insurance. He has made final decisions regarding rate increases on individual health insurance plans offered in the state. Gerhart says in a news release that his term was ending soon and it was the right time to move toward other opportunities and focus on family.

Branstad named Gerhart commissioner in 2012 and he formally took over the post in early 2013. Gerhart previously worked in the private sector.