The CAO provides corporate leadership and direction in the overall management of the Town's departments. The CAO also reviews and approves all recommendations made to Council and Committees of Council.

Since joining Richmond Hill in 2005, Joan led a staff of more than 700 full-time and 1,200 part-time employees and oversaw an annual operating budget of more than $200 million. She also led a new strategic planning process that resulted in the 2009 Strategic Plan − A Plan for People, A Plan for Change − which, togetherwith the Official Plan, guides the investments that make the community come together. She also realigned the organization, implemented a customer access centre and oversaw changes to the Finance Control, Procurement and other By-Laws.

“I’m proud of our accomplishments over the past 10 years,” said Joan. “We have established ourselves as an award-winning community and it’s been a privilege to be part of that.”

“Under Joan’s leadership, Richmond Hill set the bar for community engagement, consultation and public service excellence − and for getting the job done!” said Mayor Dave Barrow. “We are thankful for her enormous contribution and commitment to Richmond Hill’s staff and the community, and wish her all the very best in her retirement.”

Over the next several weeks, Council will begin the process of recruiting a new CAO.