Winnipeg, MB - Committed to growing a more modern, thriving city and addressing the priorities of Winnipeggers through a City Hall that works with more openness, transparency and accountability, Mayor Brian Bowman announced today that after an extensive hiring process, the CAO Selection Committee unanimously recommends Doug McNeil as the new Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Winnipeg.
Subject to Council approval at a vote on Wednesday, March 25, 2015, Mr. McNeil will assume the permanent duties of CAO on April 7, 2015.
“A critical component in moving Winnipeg forward to face our challenges and modernize our growing, thriving city is hiring a new Chief Administrative Officer who will bring an understanding of large infrastructure projects and a willingness to work in a collaborative, open, and accountable way,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “I believe Mr. McNeil’s knowledge and experience working for the City of Winnipeg, as well as the Province of Manitoba, will be valuable as we work together to restore public trust in City Hall and move Winnipeg forward.”
McNeil brings a wealth of experience involving over 30 years of work in the public sector, with more than 20 years of experience working with elected officials. He most recently served as the deputy minister of the Province of Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation department. Prior to that, he worked for the Manitoba Floodway Authority, as well as for the City of Winnipeg’s Water and Waste department, where he helped lead the City’s flood fighting efforts during the flood of 1997.
“I look forward to working collaboratively with Mayor Bowman, City Council, and the public service to serve Winnipeggers and build a stronger Winnipeg,” said Doug McNeil. “I believe in getting things done in an open and transparent manner, and I am excited to be part of a new culture shift in our City.”
McNeil’s notable career also includes managing an annual budget of $1.6 billion dollars, providing advice regarding the floodway expansion project, and acting as a key member of the Province of Manitoba’s flood fighting teams in 2011 and 2014.
The CAO Selection Committee was comprised of Mayor Brian Bowman, and Councillors Morantz, Pagtakhan, Lukes, Orlikow, Mayes, Gerbasi and Allard.