Topeka ? Westar Energy Inc.’s chief spokesman has stepped down to return to work as a lobbyist and consultant.

But Doug Lawrence, formerly the company’s vice president for public affairs, said Tuesday that he will have Westar as one of his clients while taking on others.

Lawrence, a former state representative, contracted with Westar as a lobbyist and consultant in September 2001 and then became an executive with the company two months later.

Lawrence had been a lobbyist since deciding not to seek re-election to the House in 1996.

He said he wanted to focus on public policy and lobbying and the change “just seemed a logical thing.” Lawrence said it was his choice to leave the company’s payroll.

Lawrence was hired under former chief executive officer David Wittig, who resigned from Westar in November, following his indictment on federal charges unrelated to Westar business.

But Lawrence said, “I am certainly thrilled with the direction of the company.”

The company didn’t announce Lawrence’s departure. Instead, it issued a statement to news organizations listing company contacts as Karla Olsen, senior manager for media, and Gina Penzig, a communications and media representative.