After longtime Clovis employee John Holt announced he would retire as city manager, the city has found his replacement.

Deputy City Manager Andy Haussler will take over after Holt steps down at the end of the year.

Haussler has been with the city for more than 18 years.

“Being asked to lead Clovis as city manager is the highest honor of my career,” Haussler said in a statement. “Clovis is an exceptional city with even better residents and staff. I want to thank John Holt for his 25 years of dedicated service to the city; he has made a deep impact on me and our community as a whole.”

Haussler a Familiar Name Throughout Fresno County

The city did a nationwide search to replace Holt, according to a news release.

Newly elected mayor Vong Mouanoutoua said Clovis was fortunate to be able to promote from within.

“It speaks volumes that our city has within its current ranks an individual who is not only incredibly qualified, but also extremely passionate about Clovis to fill the city manager’s position,” Mouanoutoua said.

Before serving as deputy city manager, Haussler was the city’s community and economic development director. He previously worked with Fresno County and energy company AES. He holds an undergraduate degree and master’s degree from Fresno Pacific University.

Holt praised Haussler’s performance as deputy city manager.

“The biggest compliment I can give Andy is that serving as city manager with him as my assistant city manager made my job so much easier during my tenure,” Holt said. “Andy’s dedication, expertise, and passion for Clovis are unparalleled.”

The city council needs to make the appointment official. A hearing will be held Monday. If Haussler’s promotion is approved, he will take over on Jan. 1, 2025.