The Town of Qualicum Beach has appointed Lou Varela as its new chief administrative officer (CAO).
Varela was most recently CAO for the District of Oak Bay and before that was CAO for the Town of Creston. She brings 20 years of experience in planning, management and leadership roles in municipal government to her new role, according to a media release by the Town of Qualicum Beach.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the team at the Town of Qualicum Beach. This community offers such a distinct sense of place and an amazing quality of life. The opportunity to innovate at a local government level while holding firm to those qualities that make the town unique has great appeal, both personally and professionally,” Varela said. “I look forward to serving the community, council and staff in the role of chief administrative officer for years to come.”
Varela is also a member of the Planning Institute of BC, the Canadian Institute of Planners and the Local Government Management Association.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Varela to the Town of Qualicum Beach. With her extensive experience in municipal government, we are confident that our organization and our growing community will benefit from her leadership,” said Mayor Wiese.
As CAO, Varela will be responsible for supporting the development of policies and strategies that meet the priorities of the community. The CAO role also oversees the management of financial and operational matters for the town.
Varela will begin her new role on May 16.
