Photo by UW-Madison, University Communications

The University of Wisconsin announced on Wednesday that Aaron Olver, a former secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce and head of Madison’s economic development division, has been hired as managing director of University Research Park.

“Aaron has extensive experience as a leader on economic development in the Madison region and across the state,” UW Chancellor Rebecca Blank said in a statement. “He has the skills to lead University Research Park as it grows and changes”

According to a release, Olver will coordinate the design, construction and real estate development of the buildings and property within the park, as well as the acquisition and redevelopment of other properties that strategically support UW-Madison. He also will serve as a key liaison with city and county government, state officials and agencies, the business community and local media to maintain relationships and promote the research park’s growth.

“I am thrilled to have this opportunity to work in such a dynamic and innovative environment,” Olver said in a statement. “Major public research universities are engines that drive regional economic growth, and the URP has been an important component in stimulating that growth. It is one of the most effective university-run research parks in the country.”

Olver replaces Mark Bugher, who retired last November.