The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments has approved the hiring of Philip A. Hawkey as Executive Director.

Hawkey, Executive Vice President Emeritus for the University of La Verne and former City Manager of Pasadena, will manage the SGVCOG under a two-year contract.

He replaces Fran Delach, who has served as interim Executive Director since February, when Andrea Miller left to become City Manager of Covina.

“We’re extremely fortunate to have a professional of Phil Hawkey’s caliber and experience as we expand our leadership on regional issues such as transportation, water and housing,” said Gene Murabito, President of the SGVCOG and Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Glendora.

Hawkey retired this past summer from the University of La Verne, where he served as Executive Vice President, Special Assistant to the President and, from 2012-2013, Interim Dean of the University’s College of Law. He continues to teach graduate classes in Public Administration as an Assistant Professor.

The SGVCOG is a joint powers authority of 31 cities, several unincorporated communities and three water districts.

“I am thrilled to join the SGVCOG team, and to have the opportunity to work closely with Gene and the Governing Board on issues that are critical to the well-being and quality of life in the San Gabriel Valley,” Hawkey said.

Before joining the University, Hawkey was City Manager of Pasadena from 1990-1998.