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The incoming director of the Department of Children and Family Services said Friday that he got one clear message during his single meeting with his new boss, Gov. Bruce Rauner:

He knows that its a problem agency, said George Sheldon. He seemed concerned and he also expressed a commitment to do what was necessary to fix the system. Hes totally aware of the need for change.

Sheldon, 67, who was credited with efforts to reform Floridas often-criticized Department of Children and Families when he ran that agency from 2008 through 2011, will be taking over the agency shortly after the Tribunes Harsh Treatment seriesrevealed that juvenile wards have been assaulted, raped and lured into prostitution at taxpayer-funded residential treatment centers.

During a 45-minute telephone interview from Florida, Sheldon said he warned Rauner that troubling headlines wont cease with his appointment.

These are tough jobs to start with, and Ill be frank with you and I told him no matter how good you get, regrettably something bad may happen, Sheldon said. He recognizes that. He clearly indicated that I would have the flexibility to do the job, and I also articulated to him how important transparency is.

DCFS has had seven directors and acting directors in three years, but Rauner did not ask Sheldon for a time commitment as head of the agency. We didnt talk about a time frame. He didnt ask for a specific commitment, and I didnt give one. Im willing to do it as long as I think I can be effective.

Sheldon added: Im no miracle worker and theres no quick fix to these kinds of agencies.

Sheldon said he plans to arrive in Chicago Monday afternoon and spend Tuesday in Springfield introducing himself to legislators and others.

While he will initially commute back to Florida to tie up loose ends, Sheldon said he hopes to quickly recruit a handful of trusted aides to play short-term consulting roles and help him analyze the agencys strengths and weaknesses.

But the liberal Democrat Sheldons top priority, he said: Right away, its listening.

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