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Saanich chief administrator’s ‘acting’ role becomes ‘interim’

Brent Reems will guide the district through the municipal election and into early 2023
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Brent Reems, acting chief administrative officer for the District of Saanich since Dec. 1, was named by council to serve in an interim role for the next 14 months. The recruitment process for a permanent hire will take place after the municipal election in October. (Courtesy District of Saanich)

The District of Saanich announced the hiring of an interim chief administrative officer for a 14-month period Wednesday (Feb.9).

Following a comprehensive recruitment process by Saanich council, acting CAO Brent Reems was chosen to take on the position in an interim role. Recruitment began soon after former CAO, Paul Thorkelsson, was let go on Nov. 29, 2021.

Reems will remain in the position until after the 2022 municipal election, set for Oct. 15, and the new council will be tasked with recruiting for the permanent position, which is expected to be completed in 2023.

ALSO READ: Saanich CAO tops salary list, but council paid lowest per capita among core municipalities

“We are excited to continue working with Brent and know that his passion and leadership will continue to move Saanich forward in achieving our goals,” Mayor Fred Haynes said in a release.

Reems, who has been serving as acting CAO since Dec. 6, joined the district as director of building, bylaw, licensing and legal services in October 2017. He holds a bachelor’s degree in arts and law from the University of Victoria and a master’s in arts from Queen’s University.

ALSO READ: District of Saanich ‘ends relationship’ with former CAO Paul Thorkelsson

ALSO READ: Former Saanich CAO to get almost $600,000 in severance after firing without cause


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