Stamford Director Of Administration Announces Retirement

STAMFORD, CT — Mayor David Martin announced Tuesday that Michael Handler, Stamford's director of administration, will retire from his position Friday. Martin will appoint an interim director while the city looks for a permanent replacement for the position.

There are candidates currently under consideration for the Director of Administration, and an executive search firm will be used to identify a permanent director, according to a statement from Martin's office.

"Mike has done a phenomenal job managing the city's financial operations," Martin said in a statement. "His strong work ethic and enthusiasm will be missed. I wish him the very best."

Handler was originally appointed to the position by former Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia in 2012. He was reappointed to the position by Martin in 2013.

"I cannot express how proud I am of all that we have accomplished over the past eight years," Handler said in a statement. "I am truly grateful to Mayor Martin for the opportunity, and am confident that the city is in a terrific position. I will surely miss working alongside terrific people and knowing that our collective efforts truly make a difference."

According to city officials, Handler has been "instrumental in improving the overall financial health" of the city through his position as director of administration. He led the "financial, operational and environmental turnaround of the Water Pollution Control Authority," and was a leader of a combined city and board of education effort to "address challenges in [the city's] public school facilities," officials said.

"The city appreciates Mike's efforts and accomplishments," Martin said, "and we all wish him well in whatever the future holds."