The Municipality of North Cowichan has appointed Andy Laidlaw as the new interim Chief Administrative Officer following Dave Devana’s departure in early March.
“We are fortunate to have found such a highly-qualified candidate to lead our staff while we continue the search for a permanent Chief Administrative Officer,” said Mayor Jon Lefebure.
“Mr. Laidlaw will work with staff on council’s strategic priorities and day-to-day operations at the municipality.”
Lefebure previously announced in March that Devana was no longer with the municipality after a “mutual agreement” to part ways.
No exact reason has been given for his departure and North Cowichan’s director of corporate affairs Mark Ruttan has served as acting CAO for the past two months.
Laidlaw has over 37 years of experience with local government, including as city manager in Campbell River for four years until January 2015 before taking over as interim CAO with the District of North Saanich.
He also worked at the City of Nanaimo for over years in various positions including General Manager Operations and Director, Parks, Recreation and Culture.
Laidlaw is currently listed as a senior advisor with Nanaimo’s JB Consultants.
He holds a diploma in Public Service Management from the University of Victoria, as well as a diploma in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Recreation Education.