Guelph-Eramosa officials hope to have a replacement for retiring chief administrative officer Janice Sheppard by early 2014.
The township has hired N.G. Bellchamber and Associates, of London, Ontario, to assist with the search and on Nov. 4, Nigel Bellchamber unveiled for council a timetable for the process.
He has already completed interviews with township staff and councillors – and on Monday listed about 40 requirements for the position that came out of those interviews.
“It’s truly an essential position these days,” Bellchamber told council of the CAO role.
He noted a number of staff and councillors expressed regret at the loss of “corporate memory” that will come with the departure of Sheppard, who has been with the municipality since its formation in 1999 – and worked over 20 years prior to that with former Guelph Township. However, Bellchamber noted Sheppard will likely be around after her retirement should any questions arise.
He noted municipal experience is not required for the position but it is highly recommended. He said he expects about 40 applications to come in, with about half of those having municipal experience.
Mayor Chris White noted this is the first time the municipality has hired a CAO – “it’s a big step and it’s an important decision,” he said – and he thought the comprehensive list of requirements was a good place to start.
“Its the most important job we’ve got,” added councillor Doug Breen, who highlighted the significance of the CAO’s role as a conduit between staff and council. Bellchamber outlined the timeline for the process as follows:
– running ads for the position as early as this week (in the Advertiser, Municipal World Xtra, AMCTO Express and on the township website);
– Nov. 27, close applications;
– Nov. 29, begin a review of all applicants with the township’s selection committee;
– Dec. 6, conduct first interviews with a short list of applicants;
– Dec. 16, second interviews, likely with all of council;
– Dec. 17 to Jan. 3, conduct reference checks and negotiations;
– Jan. 6, consider an appointment; and
– Feb. 4, earliest likely start date.
Council unanimously approved the timeline and seemed to agree the selection committee should consist of the consultant, mayor and one councillor – though the councillors has not yet been named.
