Nanaimo’s new interim chief administrative officer wants to bring stability to the municipality that has hired him.
Jake Rudolph was hired by city councillors earlier this month and will officially take over the role of interim city manager on Monday, July 16. He will be with the city until at least March 2019.
“I am very thrilled to have the opportunity to come and assist this organization,” Rudolph told the News Bulletin, adding that part of his mandate is to help the new council after the October election.
Rudolph brings a wealth of experience to the City of Nanaimo, having spent more than five years as a deputy city manager with the City of Abbotsford and nearly 13 years as a chief administrative officer with the City of Pitt Meadows. He has also worked for municipalities in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick and is a member of the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators.
“I’ve worked with councils since the late ‘80s, so I know what good functioning local government can be and I can provide that kind of advice,” he said.
Rudolph replaces former city manager, Tracy Samra, who was arrested in January for allegedly making threats and was later fired with cause.
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Rudolph said he’s looking forward to working with mayor, council and management to help move the city forward during a time of transition.
“My need is to talk to and listen to as many people as possible over the next few weeks,” he said. “Not only about the high-profile issues, but what is going on in all departments. What are the issues, what are the strengths, weaknesses and priorities and where we are at.”
Rudolph believes there are plenty of positives about Nanaimo.
“This city has a lot of upsides and this organization deserves as much support as it can get it,” he said.
When he’s not working, Rudolph said he enjoys running and being outdoors.
“I’ve done 27 half-marathons. I like doing that and I am very physically active,” he said.
Rudolph said he will be moving here while his family will remain in the Lower Mainland.