St. Louis, Mo. -- Post-Dispatch editor Arnie Robbins is stepping down, and editorial page editor Gilbert Bailón will become the new editor of the paper, publisher Kevin Mowbray has announced.

Robbins has been editor for more than six years and was managing editor for seven years. His last day will be May 18.

“Arnie has been the driving force of the newsroom and will be missed by everyone,” said Mowbray. “It was his leadership that guided the award-winning newsroom to produce strong investigative journalism, top-notch breaking news, and the beginning of our journey into our strong digital future.”

Robbins told his staff that it was his decision and that it was time for him to embark on the next chapter of his life.

“I've been in this business for 37 years and the last 15 years at the Post-Dispatch,'” he said. “I have loved it—the work, the journalism, this newsroom, this company. It's been rewarding, sometimes even wonderful. I have a zillion great memories.”

Bailón has been editorial page editor of the Post-Dispatch since November 2007. He previously worked at the Dallas Morning News, where he was vice president and executive editor. Bailón also worked at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, The Los Angeles Daily News, The San Diego Union and The Kansas City Star.

“Gilbert is a strong and talented team leader with knowledge of our newsroom, our industry and our community,'' Mowbray said. “I'm confident that Gilbert will continue the outstanding and exceptional work that is produced by our newsroom each and every day.”

Bailón said he was “excited for the opportunity to lead the newsroom as we evolve our print and digital products. Our future is bright and meaningful journalism remains our foundation and strength as we keep news content central to our readers’ lives.”