The Mayor of Welland has used his Strong Mayor Powers for the first time by appointing a new CAO.
Mayor Frank Campion, along with other mayors, were granted the power by the Ford government.
Rob Axiak will serve as Welland's new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), effective immediately.
Axiak, a Brock University graduate, has over 25 years of municipal experience in senior leadership roles in the GTAA and Niagara, has worked with the City for the past two-plus years as the director of community services.
Back in the summer, Welland councillors fired former CAO Steve Zorbas.
"As the City enters a critical period where each decision can have a lasting impact on its future, no one is better suited to take the helm than Rob," said Mayor Frank Campion.
"With his unparalleled professionalism, exceptional leadership skills, and extensive experience, he is the perfect guide to navigate the City through this exciting time. Rob has demonstrated tremendous leadership in the municipality over the past two years in his role as Director of Community Services, and I am confident he will rise to the occasion, delivering results that exceed even the highest expectations."
"I am deeply honoured and humbled to be entrusted with the opportunity to serve as Welland's next CAO, and I am grateful to Mayor Campion for placing his unwavering trust in me," said Axiak.
"I am eager to collaborate with Welland's Corporate Leadership Team and a committed City Council as we accomplish our goals and aspirations outlined in our Strategic Plan. Together, we share a tenacious determination for municipal excellence, and I am eager to get started."