- Organization: Township of Wilmot
- Posted: September 3rd, 2021
After a comprehensive recruitment process, the Township of Wilmot announced the appointment of Sharon Chambers as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the township, effective October 12, 2021. Chambers will be assuming the role of CAO from Interim CAO Sandy Jackson, who is returning to her role as Director of Parks, Facilities and Recreation Services.
In addition to the overarching responsibility for leadership and general management of the corporation, the CAO role helps to shape the future of the township by championing a safe and inclusive workplace through implementation of the strategic priorities of council. The CAO is the principal policy advisor to council, providing unbiased, timely, current, and professional advice to facilitate informed decisions. The CAO leads and advises the Mayor and Council in developing and managing short-, medium-, and long-term strategic initiatives, including the development of vision, mission, values, goals and strategies, master plans, and other studies to improve organizational effectiveness, efficiency, costs, and productivity.
The CAO represents the township with other municipalities, external agencies, and senior levels of government; oversees and monitors legislative compliance and sound fiscal management of the corporation; fosters an environment of positive public relations, both internally and externally; acts as an ambassador within the local and larger municipal community; and champions the programs/policies of council.
“We are extremely grateful to have Sharon assume this role at a critical time for our municipality,” said Mayor Les Armstrong. “Her senior leadership experience over the past several years in the municipal sector will provide a strong foundation to be a transformational leader for our township.”
“Having worked in a leadership capacity in the public sector for the past 10 years, I am proud of my record of building and motivating strong teams toward a unified vision, with a focus on innovation and customer service excellence,” said Chambers. “I look forward to bringing my passion for municipal governance to the amazing community of Wilmot, as the organization strives toward achieving our vision of a cohesive, vibrant, and welcoming countryside community.”
Sandy Jackson, the township’s Interim CAO, said, “Sharon is a well-respected member of the public sector that has earned a reputation amongst her peers as a skilled and knowledgeable municipal leader. Sharon’s leadership style and compassionate approach to team building is ideal to move the township’s administration forward in a positive way. I look forward to working closely with Sharon and our Corporate Leadership Team to ensure a seamless transition, and am excited to refocus on the township’s parks, recreation and facilities staff team, programs, and services.”
Chambers has served the public sector for over 25 years, joining Wilmot with 10 years of that experience in CAO positions, most recently with the Municipality of Kincardine. She began her municipal career with roles in Public Works, Administration, and Finance. Professional development is an ongoing priority for Chambers through various affiliated organizations such as the Ontario Municipal Administrators’ Association (OMAA), the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO), and the Ontario Goad Roads Association (OGRA).
