Paul Zalmezak, Evanston’s current senior economic development coordinator, has been appointed as economic development manager for the city, according to a Monday news release.

City manager Wally Bobkiewicz announced the appointment Monday, according to the release.

“Paul Zalmezak has been a cornerstone of our economic development efforts over the past six years,” Bobkiewicz said in the release. “His understanding of the role Evanston plays in the larger Chicago metropolitan marketplace, both in commercial and retail estate, has been critical to our success in those areas. He is the perfect choice to lead our economic development team.”

Zalmezak has been working with the city since 2011, according to the release, and has previously worked to bring Valli Produce to Evanston and revitalize the Evanston Plaza shopping center. He is also involved with business attraction and retention efforts as Evanston’s startup liaison.

Zalmezak holds a master’s degree in urban planning from Wayne State University, with a focus on economic development, according to the release. Before working in Evanston, where he now lives with his family, he worked with the City of Chicago as a neighborhood economic development planner.

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Twitter: @madsburk