diff --git a/build/OWNERS b/build/OWNERS
index b18dd6d6796..279d6bbf990 100644
--- a/build/OWNERS
+++ b/build/OWNERS
@@ -7,7 +7,6 @@ reviewers:
   - jbeda
   - lavalamp
   - spiffxp
-  - zmerlynn
 approvers:
   - bentheelder
   - cblecker
@@ -15,4 +14,5 @@ approvers:
   - jbeda
   - lavalamp
   - mikedanese
+emeritus_approvers:
   - zmerlynn