Roanoke City Manager Chris Morrill leaving for Chicago

Roanoke City Manager Chris Morrill (left) will leave the Star City after just more than seven years a city manager. (Copyright by WSLS - All rights reserved)

ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - Roanoke City Manager Chris Morrill is leaving his position.

He made the announcement at Tuesday afternoon's Roanoke City Council meeting.

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Morrill will start his new job as the new executive director of the Government Finance Officers Association on May 1, which will have him based in Chicago. Morrill was selected from a field of 69 candidates from throughout the country, according to a press release from the city of Roanoke. In his new role, Morrill will have the opportunity to serve state and local governments at a national and international level.

"Roanoke is the best city in the nation to lead as City Manager, because we have a dedicated City Council led by Mayor Sherman Lea, a top-notch employee team, and strong partnerships with area local governments, non-profits, and businesses and higher education," said Morrill in a press release. "I am grateful for the seven years I have had the privilege to serve as City Manager. I will always have a strong connection to Virginia's Blue Ridge and will tell Roanoke's story as I travel around the country and the world in my new role."

Morrill was appointed Roanoke's City Manager in March 2010, according to the city's website. His last day will be April 15.

"Chris Morrill ahs been a great asset to the City of Roanoke," said Roanoke Mayor Sherman Lea in a press release. "His vision has moved us forward in the areas of economic development, regional partnerships, and changing the culture of the city. While we are sorry to see him go, we wish him well in his new position. I am confident Roanoke will continue to see the benefits resulting from his strong leadership for many years to come."

The city will take its time and be deliberate in its search for a new city manager, according to city councilman David Trinkle.

The city already has contracts with search firms and Trinkle will be heading the personnel committee to find the new city manager.