Jessica Ruddell Appointed Permanent CAO, Search For Director Of Community Services Begins

Jessica Ruddell/Supplied photo

WELLAND – Mayor Frank Campion is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Ruddell as the City’s permanent Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), as permitted under Section 284.5 of the Municipal Act, 2001.

Mayor Campion commented that this appointment supports leadership continuity and stability as the City continues to advance Council’s priorities and serve the community.

With more than two decades of municipal service in senior leadership roles, Ruddell joined the municipality in January 2024 and has served as Acting CAO since October 20, 2025. During her time with the City, she has developed a strong understanding of the organization and its strategic initiatives and has demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting Council and staff through key planning and budget discussions.

“Jessica has shown the leadership competencies essential to the CAO role, including creating and communicating vision and strategy, working closely with staff and the community, promoting innovation, guiding change, and achieving meaningful outcomes,” said Campion. “I am confident in her ability to lead the organization into the future with professionalism, integrity, and a continued focus on service excellence.”

Ruddell’s appointment provides expertise in day-to-day operations, supporting the City’s ability to deliver services consistently, and maintain momentum on ongoing strategic initiatives that matter to residents.

As a result of this appointment, the City of Welland will begin recruitment for a new director of community services.

Attribution: City of Welland media release

Jessica Ruddell Appointed Welland Acting CAO

A ‘wealth of experience’ and a ‘demonstrated track record of municipal leadership‘.

WELLAND – Mayor Frank Campion is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Ruddell as Acting Chief Administrative Officer of the City of Welland, effective end of day on October 24, 2025.

Ruddell/Supplied photo

Jessica brings a wealth of experience and a demonstrated track record of municipal leadership, most recently serving as Director of Community Services for the City of Welland. In that role, she has overseen key portfolios including recreation, sport, and culture, parks, forestry, and cemeteries, and facilities. Drawing on over two decades of service in municipal administration, Jessica brings tested and thoughtful strategic and operational acumen.

“I have every confidence in Jessica’s ability to lead our organization through this transitional period without missing a beat,” said Campion. “Her expertise, institutional knowledge, and commitment to public service make her a natural choice for this role. Moreover, Jessica has the respect, support, and belief of her peers and will lead them with clarity and dedication as we continue to achieve our corporate goals.”

As Acting CAO, Jessica will guide corporate operations, support the corporate leadership team, and ensure continuity in delivering Council’s priorities. This internal promotion underscores the depth of leadership talent within the City and reinforces the City’s commitment to developing and elevating capable leaders from within.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve as the Acting CAO and to support Council, staff, and the residents of Welland in this capacity,” said Ruddell. “I know the passion and vision that exists in this community, and I am excited to continue to bring it to life in this new role.”

Ruddell succeeds Rob Axiak who was recently appointed City Manager for the City of Cambridge

Attribution: City of Welland media release