Seventy-five applicants from ‘coast to coast’ for Stratford CAO job

There is big interest in a big job with the City of Stratford.

The search for a permanent chief administrative officer for the city continues and dozens of applicants have put their name forward for the position.

Stratford Mayor Martin Ritsma said the committee tasked with finding and recommending a candidate has their work cut out for them.

“Just an amazing response from coast to coast from Newfoundland to B.C. We had 75 applications for the position.”

Ritsma, who sits on the committee, said they are close to a first round of interviews. The committee is also updating the CAO job description, so candidates know what they are being interviewed for and the interview team know what skill sets to focus on.

Joan Thomson retired after 40 years with the city at the end of March, telling MyStratfordNow at the time it was an honour and privilege to serve the city. 

Adam Betteridge is the interim CAO.

The mayor said the right person for the job will be found.

“Absolutely, 100 per cent certain we will find a quality candidate that we can recommend to council.”

Ritsma said they are hoping to have the hiring process wrapped up in July.