Written by Lance Leonhard
In April of 2020, I took over the reins as the Marathon County Administrator after serving as Deputy County Administrator under Brad Karger for 3 ½ years. While this is certainly an exciting new opportunity — and challenge — for me, the change in jobs left a vacancy in my previous position for the past several months as I focused on the pandemic.
In July, we started the recruitment process for the new Deputy County Administrator, and we are pleased to announce that Jason Hake was selected to fill this administrative role, with an October 22, 2020, start date. I, for one, couldn’t be happier to welcome him to our team.
You might ask:
What does the Deputy County Administrator do?
Well, the role of the Deputy Administrator is an important one that helps provide leadership and coordination on the execution of the County’s strategic goals and that helps ensure the operationalization of the Marathon County Strategic Plan.
This position will work closely with the County Administrator, Board of Supervisors, department heads, community partners, and business leaders, as well as other state and local officials to define and develop strategies to enhance the delivery of County Government services.
Below are a few questions we asked Jason to help us all get to know him a bit better…
Q. What interested you in working for Marathon County?
A. “I was drawn to a career in County Government due to my passion to help people and to serve the public. After reviewing Marathon County’s Mission Statement, Vision Statement, Core Values, and Strategic Plan — I knew it would be a great fit.
I graduated from Viterbo University, located in La Crosse, WI, with a degree in Accounting and a Masters of Business Administration. I started my career in County Government 8 years ago while working for the Portage County Finance Department. For the past 2 ½ years, I’ve been working in County Administration as the Administrative Coordinator of Lincon County. I knew that with my knowledge, along with prior experience, I could help Marathon County to achieve its vision for the future.”
Q. What do you think of the job so far?
A. “It’s only my second day on the job, and I am thrilled to be here. Everyone has been very welcoming, and I look forward to meeting the rest of the team. The culture and positive work environment are second to none, and I’m certainly proud to call Marathon County my new employer. Marathon County has a great Strategic Plan in place, and I’m excited to assist in any way possible to help achieve its stated goal to be the healthiest, safest, and most prosperous county in Wisconsin.”
Q. While you’re not at work, what do you like to do in your free time?
A. “I place a high priority on family and enjoy spending as much time as possible with my wife and daughter. My daughter is almost 3 years old, and she definitely keeps me on my toes!
I am originally from Wisconsin Rapids, and I enjoy taking advantage of all the outdoor activities Central Wisconsin has to offer. In the summer, you’ll more than likely find me on the golf course or on the water fishing. I also like to spend my time camping, biking, hiking, and exploring everything Wisconsin has to offer.
In the fall, I head to the woods to take in the natural fall colors and spend time hunting with my family. And let’s not forget to mention football season… Go Packers!”
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We’re happy to have Jason join our Marathon County team. He understands our commitment to continuous learning, innovation, organizational culture, core values, and our vision to make Marathon County and the surrounding area a preferred place to live, work, visit, and do business.
I invite you to call 715.261.1404 to schedule a time to come by the Marathon County Administration office to meet Jason. You can also email him at Jason.Hake@co.marathon.wi.us.
Lance Leonhard
Marathon County Administrator
Lance Leonhard began his career in Marathon County Government in the Office of Corporation Counsel. He then served as Deputy Administrator and currently serves as the Marathon County Administrator. Lance’s career in public service has spanned more than a decade, having worked for the federal government as a law clerk on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and for the state of Wisconsin as an Assistant District Attorney. Outside of work, you’re likely to find Lance spending time with his family, traveling, teeing off on a local golf course, or sitting around a campfire with friends. Email Lance Leonhard
You might also like…
- Supervisor William Harris :: Giving to His Community Through Law & Public Office
- I’m Glad You Asked . . . 5 Questions People Ask the Marathon County EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR
- Supervisor Rebecca Buch :: Faith, Family, & Forty Years in Marathon County
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