A national search to locate Stanislaus County’s new chief executive officer found the best candidate was close to home.

Monica Nino, currently the county assistant executive officer, will assume the role of Stanislaus County CEO effective Jan. 1, 2012.

“We are extremely pleased with the results of this process and the selection of Ms. Monica Nino,” said Dick Monteith, Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors chairman. “Ms. Nino has the experience, skills and vision we need to keep Stanislaus County as a model for effective government, even in these difficult times.”

Nino, a 23-year county employee, began work at the county as an accountant in 1988. She assumed a role in the Chief Executive’s Office in 1991, and was promoted into her current role as assistant executive officer in 2005.

Nino in large part led the county budget process in past years, driving the county’s efforts to balance an ever-shrinking budget, and recently assumed control of land-use issues. The experience is expected to be of use in leading more than 3,700 employees and managing an $891 million annual budget – one which still operates at a deficit.

Nino was named to the post of CEO in closed session Tuesday, following the Board of Supervisor’s regularly scheduled meeting. She bested 31 other applicants from across the nation for the position, in a recruitment process conducted internally by the County Human Resources Department.

The board noted Nino’s financial and budget experience, as well as her ability to “work with diverse groups of people” and “to make important recommendations and decisions” as key factors in their decision.

Nino will replace outgoing CEO Rick Robinson, who has served as Stanislaus County CEO since 2004. Robinson’s final day will be Dec. 31.

Details regarding Nino’s pay are still under negotiation. Robinson previously received about $252,000, annually.

To contact Alex Cantatore, e-mail acantatore@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2005.