After 36 years of public service, Guelph-Eramosa chief administrative officer (CAO) Janice Sheppard has announced her retirement, effective Jan. 31.
Sheppard has served as CAO for the township for 14 years. Prior to that she worked for 22 years as an office administrator and clerk for the former Township of Guelph. During her career, Sheppard has worked with 13 councils and seven reeves/mayors.
“Over the last 36 years, I have appreciated the opportunities for the professional and personal development that I have received,” Sheppard said in a statement. “I have enjoyed working for [both townships] and appreciate the support provided to me during my tenure with both municipalities.”
Sheppard continued, “I would like to thank the mayor and members of council for the honour of serving as chief administrative officer. I would also like to thank the hardworking and dedicated staff of Guelph-Eramosa for their support to me, as CAO, and for their commitment to making this community a great place to live, work and play.”
Mayor Chris White, on behalf of council and the township’s senior management team, said he would like to thank Sheppard “for her many years of exceptional leadership” at the township.
“Her experience, professionalism and knowledge will be missed by many,” White said. “We wish Janice all the best in her retirement and in this exciting new chapter in her life.”
White told the Advertiser Sheppard will stay on to help hire a replacement and council will also hire a recruiter to help with the process.
“We want to get going on this right away,” White said.
The mayor also noted the township will soon be announcing the hiring of a new public works manager – likely on Nov. 4.
