PITTSBURGH -- Kevin McClatchy has decided to step down as the Pittsburgh Pirates chief executive officer at the end of the 2007 season.

After more than 11 years as the day-to-day leader of the organization, McClatchy and Pirates Chairman of the Board Bob Nutting jointly announced the decision Friday to allow the organization time to conduct a thorough search for his successor.

The search process will begin immediately, but it was too early in that process to discuss possible candidates, according to Nutting.

Throughout his tenure as Pirates CEO, McClatchy has received numerous awards for his contribution to the Pittsburgh community.

"I have worked hard for more than 11 years in the best interest of the Pittsburgh Pirates, our fans and the community and will continue to do so," said McClatchy. "I have confidence in this team. We have played better recently and remain focused on having a strong second half."

Read a letter from McClatchy to his fans on Pirates.com.