Thursday, March 30, 2023 – The District of Sooke’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Norm McInnis, is stepping away from his role after announcing on April 27, 2022 he was undergoing cancer treatment.
“Norm made an impact. He led Sooke into a new chapter of sound management including organizational enhancements and cultural improvements, saw significant successes with grant applications and major capital investments, and helped our community navigate a global pandemic,” reflects Mayor Maja Tait. “I hope Norm knows what a legacy he is leaving, in particular laying a remarkable foundation for Sooke’s path forward with Community Economic Development. It has been an honour to serve Sooke with Norm.”
After a lengthy search and robust competition, Council awarded McInnis the role of Chief Administrative Officer in May 2019, a position he began in July of that year. Recognizing his experience, communication skills and commitment to service excellence through McInnis’ twenty years in local government as the best fit for Sooke, Council was thrilled to have him at the helm.
Before working with the District, McInnis successfully led several municipalities as the Chief Administrator, including positions in the City of Fernie, Town of Olds, Town of Westlock and Town of Picture Butte.
In addition, McInnis’ noteworthy career includes service on several regional committees including the Regional Emergency Management Partnership, Local Government Management Association of BC and the Local Government Administration Association of Alberta.
“Serving Sooke has been some of the most rewarding of my career in local government administration,” said McInnis. “The opportunity to be a part of this team and inspire positive change has been an absolute honour. Of course, I never expected to do so during a global pandemic, but the team and community came together which is a testament to the people here and what makes serving Council and the community of Sooke an experience I will cherish with a smile. ”
Mayor and Council, together with the leadership team and all staff, thank Mr. McInnis for his exemplary service and dedication to his role. His commitment, passion and care will be missed – and never forgotten.
While the formal recruitment process is undertaken and Don Schaffer concludes his interim appointment as CAO, Raechel Gray, Director of Finance and Deputy CAO, will serve as the District’s CAO.
Media contact:
Christina Moog
Tel: 250.642.1634, ext. 678
cmoog@sooke.ca