Ron Poole is leaving the District of Mission.
The chief administrative officer (CAO) has decided to step down at the end of the year.
“I announced earlier to council that I was stepping down at the end of the year and I did it early because I didn’t want it to be confused with the election,” Poole said.
He said he wanted to avoid any speculation or misunderstanding from council or the public regarding his motives.
Poole said he decided to step down due to family reasons.
He came to Mission on June 11, 2015 after leaving his CAO position with the District of Kitimat.
He is now planning to return to Terrace, close to family, and will take on the role as the new CAO of the Regional District of Kitimat Stikine.
Until then, he has plenty of work to do here.
“What I have committed to this council is to get them through the election, help them with the orientation, get through the strategic planning process and finalize a draft budget for 2019,” Poole said.
His replacement has already been chosen.
“I recommended to council that they hire Mike Younie as my replacement.”
Poole said when he was hired it was clear that council wanted him to start succession planning and he saw that Younie had the makings of a CAO.
“He just needed some experience working with a CAO,” sad Poole, adding that continuity will continue with Younie at the helm.
Younie will assume the district’s top administrative position starting Dec. 3, 2018.
Currently the deputy CAO for Mission, Younie previously held the director, development services position, deputy director of engineering, and was manager, environmental services for the district.
“I’m grateful and looking very much forward to working with the new council,” said Younie about his appointment.
He said he has worked with senior staff and several different councils during his time in Mission, which has provided him with some incredible career opportunities.
Now he’s ready for the next challenge.
“My role will change. I’ll be working a lot more closely with council, for starters, and trying to help them develop their strategic objectives, and make sure staff is focused on achieving those objectives.”
With more than 12 years of experience in local government, Younie brings a wealth of experience to the position.
His appointment was supported unanimously by council.
“Michael Younie is an asset to Mission, and has proven himself invaluable during his time in the deputy CAO position. Council recognizes his commitment to the community and the organization, and we fully support his move into the new role,” said Mayor Randy Hawes.