Mayor Andre Sayegh has announced the appointment of Christian Callegari as the acting economic development director.

Callegari will assume this role while the city conducts a comprehensive search for a new director. His official start date is set for August 1, 2023.

Callegari, who served as Sayegh’s chief of staff for less than two years, is replacing Michael Powell, who served as economic development director for five years.

Callegari thanked Sayegh for the appointment.

“I look forward to working closely with our council colleagues, and dedicated staff in Economic Development, to continue to make our vision for Paterson a reality,” Callegari said.

Sayegh said Callegari demonstrated “exemplary leadership” as chief of staff, leading communications efforts, government and private grant funding opportunities, sustainability programs, and shared services conversations with other public entities. He also assisted Business Administrator Kathleen Long in dealing with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

“I have full faith in his ability to continue our progress and lead our economic development efforts. His dedication and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and prosperity of Paterson,” Sayegh said of Callegari.