The loss of Short is the third notable exit for Massey in less than five weeks: two members of its board of directors quit June 14, the news service said.

A spokesperson for the company confirmed Short’s exit last Thursday, which various media outlets noted as sudden. Mark Clemens has been appointed to fill his seat.

Short has been with Massey Energy for 26 years and in his position since 1995, according to an Associated Press report.

Massey did not elaborate on the impetus for his departure, and no public statement was made other than thanking him for his years of service in a separate release.