Wilmot Township announces organizational changes recommended by service delivery review

The Township of Wilmot has made several strategic organizational changes to support leadership capacity, build internal resiliency and promote long-term stability.

The changes were suggested by StrategyCorp, the consultants leading the Township’s service delivery review. A recent StrategyCorp report recommended more support for the Chief Administrative Officer to enhance oversight, ensure continuity and allow increased focus on corporate priorities.

In response, Council approved the creation of a Deputy CAO position and appointed long-time Wilmot employee Harold O’Krafka to the role. O’Krafka has worked for the Township for more than three decades, leading the Development Services Department for 27 years.

A steady hand in the organization, O’Krafka brings invaluable institutional knowledge and deep care for the community to the role. He is now at the helm of a reorganized Corporate Services Department, overseeing By-Law Enforcement, Communications, Human Resources, Information Technology and Legislative Services.

At StrategyCorp’s suggestion, Finance has been separated from Corporate Services to allow more focus on fiscal priorities. The department will be led by Harjot Grewal, Wilmot’s newly hired Director of Financial Services/Treasurer. Grewal is a Chartered Professional Accountant whose extensive experience in public-sector financial leadership will fill a critical gap as Wilmot develops its long-term financial plan.

O’Krafka’s move to Corporate Services opened an opportunity for another experienced Township employee. After more than 25 years with the organization, Andrew Martin has been promoted to Director of Development Services. Martin’s commitment to the community and deep technical expertise will be a boon to the department as it develops the Township’s new Official Plan.

Ken VanderWal was also recently promoted to Director of Infrastructure Services following the departure of the previous director. A Professional Engineer with a mix of private and public sector experience, VanderWal brings strong leadership, dedication, and a collaborative approach to overseeing Wilmot’s critical assets and managing major infrastructure upgrades.

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Jeff Willmer, Chief Administrative Officer, Township of Wilmot

“I’m very proud of the leadership team we’ve assembled to guide Wilmot toward a strong and stable future. With Council’s support, we’ve brought together a dedicated group with deep expertise, focused on building a culture of collaboration and cooperation.”

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For media inquiries:

Brett O’Reilly | Communications Specialist
brett.oreilly@wilmot.ca | 519-556-0039