Highland Heights Hires New Finance Director

didn't go far to find its next finance director. Joseph Filippo, who has been finance director of South Euclid since 2004, was hired to replace the retiring Anthony Ianiro.

The appointment of Filippo was approved by Highland Heights City Council on Tuesday night. In announcing his decision, Mayor Scott Coleman explained the process he went through to find someone to replace Ianiro.

"It was with mixed emotions that I went through the hiring process to find his replacement," Coleman said. Instead of advertising the job through mainstream publications, he posted it on the Ohio Municipal League website and with the Municipal Finance Officers Association of Northeast Ohio.

"I reviewed dozens of applications from some very qualified candidates," he said.

He said Filippo, who has a degree in accounting from the University of Dayton and is a certified public accountant, has received numerous awards for his work and has the municipal finance experience he sought in a candidate.

"I know that Joe is going to have as seamless of a transition as possible," Coleman said.

Filippo, a resident of South Euclid, said the move was an "opportunity to enhance my career." "The finances are better here," he added.