April 3, 2020, Simcoe, ON – It certainly isn’t typical to introduce a new leader in the middle of a state of emergency. But these are far from typical times.
Jason Burgess started his new role as Norfolk County’s CAO April 3, in the midst of a COVID-19 pandemic that has affected all aspects of County operations.
Burgess had been serving as Norfolk’s General Manager of Corporate Services, and played a key role in navigating the County through tumultuous budget discussions.
He has extensive experience in both the private and public sectors, including senior positions with the Region of Niagara, where he oversaw Finance, IT, Facilities, Real Estate, Surveys, Procurement, and Legal Services.
Though he has been in self-isolation for the last two weeks, he has been in constant contact with the County’s Emergency Operations Centre, helping to manage the situation alongside other senior members of staff.
“As we continue to navigate this public health emergency, Council and I are truly grateful that Jason will be at the helm,” says Mayor Kristal Chopp. “Jason is a highly-skilled leader with a wide range of experience that I know will prove absolutely invaluable to the County.”
Chopp also expressed her gratitude to interim CAO Bill Cridland, who temporarily stepped into the role while Council conducted its search for someone to fill the role permanently, in an email to all staff.
“Bill recognized the change mandate of this Council from the beginning, and he rolled up his sleeves to work with us,” wrote Chopp. “I want to sincerely thank him for his leadership over the last number of months.”
