MANSFIELD - Selectmen voted unanimously to offer the vacant town manager position to Dedham's town administrator Wednesday night after interviewing three finalists for the job.

The offer was made to William G. Keegan Jr., who has been Dedham's town administrator since 2002.

In seconding the motion by Jess Aptowitz, Selectman Kevin Moran said it was Keegan's experience in Massachusetts that made him the best candidate for the job.

"I think he's going to hit the ground immediately," Moran said.

During his interview, Keegan touted his ability to make sure all sides of an issue are represented when decisions are being made. "I'm a very collaborative person," he said. "I'm able to bring a lot of people to the table."

A graduate of Westfield State College, Keegan holds a master's degree in regional planning from the University of Massachusetts. Before taking the position in Dedham, Keegan served five years as Seekonk's town administrator.

He also has municipal experience in Wayland, Shrewsbury, Millbury and Hollywood, Fla.

If he takes the helm, Keegan said he plans to meet with town employees and elected officials to determine what is and is not working in town, and what actions should be taken.

Keegan said he would make a point of being active in community affairs, meeting with residents regularly to hear their concerns and ideas.

"I can't be effective if people don't know who I am," he said.

Keegan expressed an interest in becoming the manager of the Mansfield Municipal Electric Department, a role previously held by Mansfield's town managers.

Keegan said he sees great potential for the town, which he said is poised to recover quickly from the recession.

"There is an opportunity to take Mansfield to the next level," he said. "I see extraordinary potential here."

Before reaching a decision, the board also interviewed former Jackson, Mich., City Manager Bill Ross and former Brockton Mayor Jack Yunits. If he takes the job, Keegan will replace former Town Manager John D'Agostino, who left his post in June. Building Inspector Nick Riccio has been filling in on an interim basis.

The town plans to enter in contract negotiations with Keegan soon.

MATT KAKLEY covers Mansfield for The Sun Chronicle. He can be reached at 508-236-0333 or at mkakley@thesunchronicle.com.