Centre County’s next top administrator is a familiar face around county and local government.
The Board of Commissioners on Thursday voted to appoint John Franek as the new administrator and chief clerk for Centre County government effective May 9.
Franek has been deputy county administrator since March 2021.
“I am truly humbled by the opportunity to serve as the next Administrator of Centre County,” Franek said in a statement. “I am honored to continue working with the commissioners and the entire county team in serving our community.”
Before joining county government, Franek spent nearly 15 years working for College Township in several roles, including six years as management analyst with responsibility for a variety of business functions and projects to promote the efficient delivery of services to residents.
He then spent nearly two years as code services manager for the Centre Region Council of Government.
“The commissioners are thrilled to have John step into the role of administrator and know he will hit the ground running,” Chairman Michael Pipe said on behalf of the board. “We have worked closely with him during the past year and have seen firsthand his tremendous dedication to Centre County Government.”
Franek succeeds Margaret Gray, who previously announced her intent to retire in May.
“The board again wants to thank and appreciate the six years of service Margaret Gray provided the residents of Centre County as administrator,” Pipe said. “She has provided outstanding leadership to the county working with the commissioners, elected officials, staff and community to advance our many programs and services.”
Franek is a resident of Philipsburg and earned a degree in public administration from Upper Iowa University.
The county Salary Board on Thursday approved an annual salary of $123,198.40 for Franek as administrator.
