The background
During a Feb. 2 called meeting, the board of directors accepted the resignation of Pat Allen and appointed Philip DeFrancesco as the interim general manager.
Over four months, the GVSUD has used Baker Tilly Public Sector Executive Recruitment to conduct a nationwide search for a new general manager.
According to a May 23 news release, the process attracted many applicants, which resulted in four finalist candidates completing due diligence, leadership assessments, background checks and interviews with the board.
“On behalf of my fellow board members, we are thrilled to welcome Phillip to our team as our new general manager,” GVSUD board President John Frias said in the release. “His unparalleled dedication to service delivery excellence and visionary leadership, and his proven record of success make him the ideal person to steer our organization towards greater heights.”
About the candidate
Gage most recently served as the senior director of operations and strategic planning, and chief of staff for the U.S. Army.
The release states Gage has served in positions as a senior strategic military advisor, CEO, and garrison commander and chief operations officer in Afghanistan and Japan as well as San Antonio.
Gage holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Development from Texas A&M University, a Master of Science in Adult and Continuing Education from Kansas State University, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.
Gage will start his role as general manager on June 1. Interim General Manager Philip DeFrancesco will return to his former role as assistant general manager.
“I am honored and humbled for the opportunity to work with the board of directors and other members of the GVSUD,” Gage said in the release. “Together, I am confident we will integrate innovation, strategy and unwavering commitment to our customers. I welcome this challenge, and I am eager to lead GVSUD into the next chapter.”
