NBC News specials executive producer Phil Alongi, who's been with NBC for more than 30 years, is leaving the network at the end of February. Alongi, who's been with the specials unit since 1987 and before that with NBC Nightly News, says simply the time has come to try something different. "After this exciting and exceptional two-year run with this election, now's the time to step aside," Alongi tells TVNewser.

Alongi is neither taking a buyout nor being laid off, but rather he's being let out of his contract and will take an early retirement. He plans to start his own consulting firm which could include broadcasters, new media, political groups and think tanks as clients. Says Alongi, "This is something that I've been thinking about for a while."

As EP of specials Alongi was charged with coordinating breaking news and special event coverage for NBC News, including election and inauguration coverage; the Papal transition in 2005 and Olympics coverage in Athens, Torino, and Beijing.

During the past few years NBC and MSNBC have coordinated their special report efforts leading some to believe that with Alongi's departure, MSNBC will produce all special report coverage for NBC News.

We're told that's not the case and that a search is on for Alongi's replacement.

"I'm just looking forward to something new," says Alongi. "There are so many different opportunities out there."

Departing NBC News specials EP Phil Alongi with NBC's Marian Porges and NBC's Chris Jansing in May, 2007. (photo ICN)