A county in the region has named its new deputy administrator.

John Shay was selected from a pool of 118 applicants to serve Ottawa County in the role, beginning July 23.

Shay is the city manager for Ludington, where he has served for 15 years. Previously, he served as the village manager for Almont for five years.

He is also the VP of the Michigan Municipal Executives.

“We are thrilled to have John Shay join the Ottawa County team,” said Al Vanderberg, administrator, Ottawa County. “John’s many successful years in municipal management will serve the county well.”

Shay replaces Keith Van Beek, who left in April to become the city manager for Holland.

The county leadership position pays $123,468.

“I am very excited to begin work as Ottawa County’s next deputy county administrator and to join a dedicated team of public servants, providing excellent public services in a cost-effective manner,” Shay said.

He holds a B.A. in history from Boston College and an M.P.A. from Oakland University.

Aside from work, Shay officiates football games for the Michigan High School Athletic Association and Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association.