Athabasca County is pleased to announce that Mr. Robert (Bob) Beck will become the next Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for Athabasca County.
Reeve and Council acknowledges the support provided by Mr. Pat Vincent and all staff during the recruitment process.
Reeve Brian Hall said, “Council engaged in the CAO recruitment to secure an individual who will put into action the direction set through the strategic plan, and Council’s desire to refocus attention to quality service, investment attraction, and greater collaboration and engagement with residents and regional stakeholders. There were a number of quality of applicants and our decision was not easy.”
“I am pleased that Bob has accepted the offer to be our new CAO,” states Reeve Hall. “My fellow Councillors and I took great care to find an individual with the right qualifications and character to fulfill this key role. In our vetting and interview phases, it was evident that Bob’s background and experience will be an asset to the County. I look forward to working with him.”
Mr. Beck possesses considerable municipal experience having served as CAO, and in various roles in planning and development, and emergency services departments. In addition to Bob’s seasoned leadership experience, he has been an active participant over the years in the Society of Local Government Managers both on the Board and serving as Chair.
Deputy Reeve Ashtin Anderson echoes Reeve Hall’s sentiment. “With his breadth of municipal expertise, we feel Bob is ideally suited to lead the County,” she shares. “We are confident in his ability to mentor the leadership team, manage our present challenges, and chart a course for success.”
“I look forward to the opportunity to work with the Council and the quality team in Athabasca County. Not only do I appreciate the rural and recreational amenities of the region, but I feel strongly there exists considerable potential and opportunities for the County and its partners.”, said Mr. Beck.
Mr. Beck will join the County as CAO with the official start date of October 2nd, 2023.
Reeve Hall compliments the work of Interim-CAO Vincent saying “I would like to thank Mr. Vincent for accepting the Interim CAO role during this time of transition. Drawing on his 50 plus years of municipal service he sets an example for other CAO’s to aspire to. He has been an asset to the County and his leadership over the past many months is greatly appreciated.”
