Quispamsis Town Council selects next Chief Administrative Officer

The Town of Quispamsis’ Town Council is very pleased to announce the appointment of Ian Watson as the Town’s next Chief Administrative Officer.

Ian brings a wealth of operational and strategic leadership experience, stemming from his over 30 years working within the public sector – over 20 of which have been in New Brunswick. As a proud New Brunswicker and Quispamsis resident, Ian is passionate about his community and the pursuit of excellent, sustainable, and accessible services for residents within the region. 

Ian began his career as a paramedic where he spent a number of years before moving into progressively senior roles within the healthcare sector in New Brunswick. After providing leadership in Emergency Health Services for several years, Ian held the role of Director of Laboratory Medicine with Horizon Health Network. From 2010-22, Ian held the role of Director with Trauma NB, where he led the development, implementation and oversight of the provincial health program for those with serious and critical injuries.

Most recently, Ian has held the role of Assistant Deputy Minister within the Government of New Brunswick’s Department of Health. He has played an important role within the Department, providing leadership, guidance and oversight to the delivery of Acute Care, Cancer Care, EMS, Emergency Management, Extra-Mural/Home Care programs and Psychiatric Patient Advocate Services for New Brunswick’s population. 

“Throughout his career, Ian has demonstrated a deep understanding and appreciation for the diverse and growing needs of the province’s population and has continuously demonstrated a commitment to enhancing services aimed at improving the lives of all New Brunswickers,” says Mayor Libby O’Hara. “Council believes his strategic aptitude and his track record of success in leading complex portfolios and building partnerships across sectors will provide a solid foundation to lead the Town of Quispamsis in this time of growth, ensuring sustainable development and excellent services for all residents.”

“I look forward to this opportunity to continue my career in public service as Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Quispamsis” says Ian. “With an optimistic outlook, a commitment to collaboration and a drive to achieve results, I am confident that together, we will ensure that Quispamsis continues its impressive track record as a growing, vibrant, and engaged community”.

Ian holds a Master of Health Administration from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science from the University of New Brunswick. He has also been proud to support many community organizations, having served as a Board Member with Parachute, a national charity dedicated to injury prevention, as well as Board Chair with the Atlantic Collaborative on Injury Prevention.

The Town of Quispamsis is proud to welcome Ian as its next CAO beginning on August 26, 2024. Please join us in congratulating Ian as he steps into his new role.