After 40 years of service, Joan Thomson is getting set to retire from her high-profile job as chief administrative officer for the City of Stratford.
Thomson was named clerk in 1999 and appointed acting CAO in 2019 before accepting the permanent role the following year.
Thomson told MyStratfordNow it’s been an honour and privilege to serve the City of Stratford.
Although looking forward towards the next chapter in her life, Thomson said she will miss the people who have made her career so rewarding.
Thomson is retiring at the end of March, and an interim CAO will be announced, while the city looks at applications.
Mayor Martin Ritsma asks that citizens give the city time to “do a good job” of finding the next CAO, which could take several months.
“It’s gonna be tough to replace the leadership of Ms. Thomson as we move forward.”
Thomson says she is proud of what she has accomplished alongside colleagues and council to make this community such a wonderful place.
