Having been named facilities and maintenance director following the retirement of longtime school administrator Ivan “Chip” Davis Jr., Buckingham County Middle School Principal J.B. Heslip is stepping down from his role at the school.

His new role is effective July 1.

Division Superintendent Dr. Cecil Snead said Heslip’s stepping down as principal was decided after he was hired to be facilities and maintenance director.

“He interviewed and was selected for the position of facilities/maintenance director in Buckingham,” Snead said. “While we are sad to be losing a great principal, we are excited to be gaining his services and talents as … director.”

Snead said that the division is currently advertising for the middle school principal position, which will be vacant after July 1.

Heslip said he worked with Davis for 20 years.

Davis worked with the division for more than 35 years.

Heslip said he respects and will miss Davis.

“I’ll have to work hard to fill those shoes,” Heslip said.

Davis previously served as principal at the middle school. “He’ll be sorely missed, that’s for sure,” Heslip said.

Heslip said he’s excited for the responsibilities of his new position, which will include capital repairs in school facilities.

Heslip will also be evaluating budgets to prioritize repairs.

“I am looking forward to the challenge,” Heslip said. “The job requires a lot of attention, and that’s what I intend to give it.”

Heslip said he has had an extensive background in contracting and construction, having been a lead carpenter for his uncle’s construction company, Bratton Construction, in Montgomery County, near Christiansburg and Blacksburg.

He said that as middle school principal, he will most miss interacting with the teachers and students.

“It is such an honor to be involved in such a good school system as Buckingham County,” Heslip said. “I have been taken aback by the people I have met here … I’m grateful to have the opportunity to do this.”