The Region of Queens Municipality has appointed a new chief administrative officer following a national search.

Council voted unanimously to hire Willa Thorpe, who will officially step into the role on June 16. Thorpe was selected from a large pool of applicants, with councillors citing her municipal leadership experience and strategic background as key factors in the decision.

She brings over 20 years of senior-level experience, including more than a decade working in local government. Most recently, she served as director of Parks, Recreation and Culture in Port Alberni, British Columbia.

Thorpe also holds a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, a Master’s degree in Leadership, and other academic and professional certifications. She has experience in both the public and volunteer sectors.

She will replace interim CAO Dan MacDougall, who had been contracted earlier this year to assist council with both daily operations and the recruitment process. MacDougall was recognized by council for helping move forward municipal priorities during his time in the role.

Thorpe becomes the sixth permanent CAO to lead the Region of Queens Municipality since its amalgamation 29 years ago.