Hanover Park names new village manager

Hanover Park officials said they have found a leader capable of continuing the village’s efforts to revamp its image and spur economic development.

Juliana Maller, the current acting city manager of Park Ridge, has been appointed new village manager of Hanover Park, ending a hiring process that began with 85 applicants. She starts Aug. 20.

“I believe the village is on the right track, and we couldn’t be more excited to find someone with the skills and experience we need,” Mayor Rod Craig said.

Maller replaces Ron Moser, who retired last month after a 14-year tenure with the village, the first 11 as its police chief.

Maller’s appointment was approved by the board Thursday.

Park Ridge’s deputy city manager since 1996, Maller stepped into her current role three months ago as acting city manager after the city council fired Jim Hock, citing a need for a change in leadership.

Before that, she served for five years as West Chicago’s assistant to the city administrator. She holds a master’s degree in public administration from Northern Illinois University and a bachelor’s degree in public administration and political science from Augustana College.

Maller said serving Park Ridge for 15 years was a privilege, but that she welcomes the new opportunity.

“I will be dedicated in Hanover Park to uphold the values of good government and be committed to being a collaborative leader,” Maller said. “I will promote the principles of professionalism, have a high regard for ethical standards, and the value of democracy.”

Maller, whose current annual salary is about $138,000, will make $160,000 in Hanover Park. Moser’s salary was $163,5000.

“I definitely feel we can justify her compensation package given her extensive skills,” said Hanover Park Trustee Bill Cannon, head of the village’s finance committee.

Officials said they were impressed with Maller’s economic development background as chair of Park Ridge’s 30-member Economic Development Task Force and project manager of a $120 million retail and residential development in the city’s downtown.

She’s also the past president of the Illinois City/County Management Association. “I think Juliana will take us to the next level,” Craig said.