Thunder Bay incoming City Manager John Collin - Supplied photo via City of Thunder Bay

After an extensive search, Thunder Bay has found a new city manager.

John Collin is set to take on the role on June 17, replacing retiring manager Norm Gale.

“I’m very much looking forward to working with John,” said Mayor Ken Boshcoff. “He was selected for his leadership track record, his commitment to creating growth and exceptional customer service culture, his broader public sector experience and for his drive, clear focus, high-level collaboration and strategic communication skills. He is the ideal candidate to lead our community.”

Collin was city manager in Saint John, New Brunswick for four years, and was also selected as the city manager in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories this spring before opting to take the role in Thunder Bay.

Before his time working in municipal politics, Collin spent 35 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, ending his tenure as a Major-General.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to have been chosen as the new city manager,” said Collin. “ There are incredible opportunities for Thunder Bay to grow and thrive, and I plan to help deliver on that potential while protecting what matters to the community.”

The City Manager provides strategic leadership and overall administration to the city, creates corporate policy and provides guidance to city council about city organization and operating procedures.

The City Manager also leads the City Manager’s Office which includes the city solicitor & corporate counsel, human resources, strategic initiatives and engagement and the Office of the City Clerk.