Van Cleef is pleased to welcome John Mele as the new Branch Manager of our Toms River office. Bringing more than 25 years of experience in engineering, planning, municipal leadership, and project management throughout New Jersey, John will lead the office’s continued growth while supporting clients across the region. “I’m looking forward to getting to know and hear from our staff, as well as, our clients,” John said. “I’m also excited to reconnect with colleagues throughout the public and private sectors and identify opportunities where Van Cleef can continue to provide the high level of service and expertise our clients expect.”
Prior to joining Van Cleef, John served as Township Engineer, Director of Community Development, and Floodplain Administrator for the Township of Toms River, overseeing engineering, planning, zoning, code enforcement, capital improvement programs, grant initiatives, and community development efforts. He has also held leadership positions with municipalities and consulting firms throughout New Jersey, building extensive expertise in municipal engineering, infrastructure improvements, floodplain management, land development, and project delivery.
As Branch Manager, John will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Toms River office, provide leadership and mentorship to staff, ensure project quality and technical excellence, and contribute to firmwide strategic initiatives while managing key client relationships and projects.
Reflecting on his new role, John shared, “Van Cleef already does incredible work. I plan to support and expand on the great work we’re already doing while finding ways to maximize efficiency between our project teams, offices, and disciplines. This will not only help our day-to-day operations run more smoothly, but it will also deliver greater value to our clients and support the firm’s continued growth and success.”
A licensed Professional Engineer and Professional Planner in New Jersey, John is also a Certified Municipal Engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Bioresource/Bioenvironmental Engineering from Rutgers University and has been active in the New Jersey Society of Professional Engineers, including serving as President of the Ocean County chapter.
With his technical expertise, leadership experience, and deep understanding of the communities we serve, John is exceptionally well-positioned to lead Van Cleef’s Toms River office. We are excited to welcome him to the team and look forward to the contributions he will make to our clients, partners, and communities
