The Regional District of Nanaimo chose Paul Thorkelsson as its new chief administrative officer.
Thorkelsson, who was the RDN’s general manager, strategic and community development, was filling in as interim chief administrative officer since the departure of Carol Mason, who took the same role for Metro Vancouver.
Thorkelsson officially takes over permanently Dec. 17.
“On behalf of the RDN Board I would like to say how pleased we are that Paul has accepted this position,” said RDN chairman Joe Stanhope. “Paul has a strong and varied academic background as well as regional district, municipal, elected official and private industry experience. Over the past six years, and particularly in the past three months, he has proven to be a skilled mentor and an effective leader. Paul is well-liked and respected by RDN staff, and he is an excellent fit for the role of CAO.”
Thorkelsson holds a master’s degree in architecture from the University of B. C., and in 2011 he earned a master of public administration degree from the University of Victoria. He spent seven years in private industry as an architect, and served as an elected municipal councillor for the Town of Creston from 1999 to 2002.