Portland has a new public health director after several months of searching to fill the role.

Bridget Rauscher, who has served as interim director of the Public Health Division since her predecessor left his post in August, will take over as the director of public health. 

Portland Public Health Director Bridget Rauscher. Photo courtesy City of Portland

The Public Health Division is part of the city’s Health and Human Services Department and operates the city’s needle exchange, administers immunizations, and works to prevent and treat disease.

Rauscher has worked for the city for 14 years. Before being named interim director, she was a program manager, managing prevention programs and clinical services. Rauscher holds a master’s degree in policy, planning and management from the University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School of Public Service. 

“It is an honor and privilege to serve in this new role and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity,” Rauscher said in a statement. 

The new public health director’s salary is $113,720.

Former Director Alfredo Vergara resigned in August after two years on the job to take a job at the University of New England.