The former public works director and village engineer for Oak Brook has been selected as the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s executive director.
The Forest Preserve board is expected to vote on a one-year contract for Michael Hullihan, 60, at its July 28 meeting.
Hullihan served in his Oak Brook positions for the last seven years, according to a district press release.
Since storm water management is a big part of the forest preserve work, Hullihan’s engineering background was an added bonus to his resume, officials said in the release.
“The great thing about Mike is his engineering background,” said Joe Cantore, president of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County in the release. “He’s going to be able to hit the ground running because he understands the mechanics behind it [storm water management] already.”
Hullihan also previously worked as the vice president of Gannett Fleming, a global company focused on infrastructure solutions.
“Mike brings exceptional leadership skills to the district and will help ensure it remains a leading agency in conservation and preservation,” Cantore said in the release. “His executive experience and background will help advance this organization on behalf of all DuPage County residents.”
Hullihan is also a retired lieutenant colonel with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Cantore said the district was down to the final three candidates, and chose Hullihan for “the sum total of all his experiences.”
“The man is very accomplished already, and I think this chapter in the forest preserve existence and his life is going to be very exciting, and one that we’re all ready for,” Cantore said.
Hullihan’s contract will be posted for six days before the forest preserve board votes on the deal.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to join a winning team,” said Hullihan, in a press release. “I’m looking forward to working for an organization with first-class facilities and natural areas and a team of professionals from many different disciplines.”
Hullihan’s one-year contract calls for an annual salary of $165,000, and will begin on Aug. 24.