The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is announcing its new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).

Henry Hunter will assume his new role as CAO of the RMWB on October 16th, pending his formal appointment at the October 10th council meeting.

Hunter previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of Wood Buffalo Housing for over six years and as Vice President of Capital Projects at Keyano College from 2014 to 2017.

Hunter has been a resident of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo since 2012.

“Our priority is to prioritize the people of this region while working collaboratively to build relationships and communities,” said Mayor Sandy Bowman.

“Following a competitive recruitment process, we, as a Council, are confident that Henry can guide the organization in supporting these goals collectively.”

Hunter initially came to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo in 2012 to work as the Executive Director of Public Infrastructure and Planning for the RMWB.

“This region has been my home for over a decade, and I have a vested interest in helping to realize its full potential,” said Hunter.

“We have a lot of work ahead, and I’m excited to get started.”

Hunter is replacing Paul Thorkelsson, who parted ways with the RMWB in July. This departure led to Regional Fire Chief Jody Butz temporarily filling the role as the council sought a permanent replacement for Thorkelson.

The RMWB has gone through six CAOs in the past decade.