Whittier’s former community development director Conal McNamara will return to the city in May to serve as its chief administrator. McNamara, who previously served as Whittier's community development director, was hired Tuesday as the next city manager. He will be the ninth person to occupy the post in Whittier’s 127-year history.
“It’s a pleasure and an amazing opportunity to be back,” McNamara said. “It’s really old hat with the staff, as do many are still here, which is a strong indication why Whittier is how it is, with this outstanding staff and great team. It’s good to be home.”
McNamara currently serves as La Palma’s city manager. He started out as a city planner, serving stints in Irvine, San Bernardino, and Santa Clarita. He previously worked for Azusa and served as a policy deputy for ex-Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovich.
McNamara will succeed Brian Saeki, who is now the city manager of Vernon. McNamara’s contract calls for an annual salary of $306,648 per year.