On Friday, Quinn had nothing but praise for Lavin, crediting him with helping pass the state's first public works program in a decade as well as a major restructuring of the state's healthcare system for the poor. Lavin also led numerous budget-cutting efforts, including the closure of more than 50 state facilities.



"I thank Jack Lavin for his many years of public service and his hard work to restore fiscal stability, integrity and economic prosperity to Illinois," Quinn said in a statement released late Friday afternoon. "He has done an excellent job building a brighter future for all the citizens of this state."



Lavin will be replaced by Ryan Croke, 30, who previously served as deputy chief of staff overseeing multiple agencies including the Illinois State Police, the Department of Corrections, the Department of Veterans' and Military Affairs and the Emergency Management Agency.



Croke will assume his new position in October following a transition period. He will reside in Springfield, and travel to Chicago as necessary. Croke's salary will be $130,000 a year. Lavin's annual pay was $170,000.