Richard J. Monocchio became the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s principal deputy assistant secretary for public and Indian housing Monday. He exited his role of 12 years as the executive director of the Housing Authority of Cook County on Wednesday.

“As a life-long public servant, it is my sincere pleasure to return to HUD to serve the Office of Public and Indian Housing,” Monocchio said in a news release. “I am thrilled to bring my experience as a leader in public housing efforts for the City of Chicago, Cook County, and as an advisor in Congress to better the lives of the people HUD serves. Together, we will enhance the quality, affordability, and safety of housing across this country.”

Monocchio previously worked for HUD under former President Bill Clinton’s administration. He also served as the buildings commissioner, aviation chief of staff and first deputy housing commissioner for the city of Chicago.

Monocchio referred the Tribune to HUD when asked for an interview.

As of Monday morning, no new executive director for the Housing Authority of Cook County had been announced. Jon Duncan, the housing authority’s general counsel, said the board of commissioners will meet sometime this week to appoint an interim director.

The Housing Authority of Cook County was established in 1946 and helps provide affordable housing to thousands of residents.