The City of Geneva will be searching for a new leader to head up its Economic Development Department after director Ellen Divita announced her resignation.

Divita, who has worked with the City since 2008, has accepted the Community Development director position with the City of DeKalb.

“We appreciated the experience and expertise Ellen brought to the City organization and our business community these past six years,” City Administrator Mary McKittrick said. “I know Ellen is looking forward to new challenges, and we wish her the best in this next phase of her career.”

Divita’s last day is expected to be in late October, but a final date has not been determined.

The City is working on a recruitment profile and job description for the position, which should be posted to the City’s website at www.geneva.il.us in the coming weeks. City officials hope to select a new director later this year.

The Economic Development Department provides valuable retention, recruitment and training resources to attract and help businesses grow within Geneva. The department also coordinates special event permits, promotes tourism opportunities, and distributes communication pieces to the City’s merchants and business owners.

Starting in November, the responsibilities of the director will be split between McKittrick and Business Development Specialist Paul Evans until the new hire has been brought on board.