Pyne retires as head of PERS

George Pyne will retire as executive officer of the Public Employees' Retirement System. effective July 15.

Pyne, 50, started at PERS in 1977. In 1995, he was named executive officer of the system, which provides retirement benefits for almost all public employees in Nevada.

"His professionalism and personable style are tremendous assets to the system and will be missed," said Charles Silvestri, retirement board chairman.

The board will select a new executive officer. The job pays $116,000 a year.

Pyne said he has decided to try something new after 26 years with PERS.

"I may go back to school and get my MBA," he said. "I've even thought about getting a teaching credential, and I've got some private-sector opportunities."

He said leaving the system was his own decision.

The retirement board meets this month, but hasn't yet decided on a process for replacing Pyne.

About 85,000 active members and 25,000 retirees in state government, local governments and school districts across Nevada belong to the retirement system.