Nearly two years after Norm McInnis stepped down as chief administrative officer, the District of Sooke has announced that Raechel Gray will become its new CAO.
Gray has been serving as interim CAO since Oct. 24, 2023.
McInnis took a leave of absence in April 2022 following a cancer diagnosis. He permanently left the post last March.
Sooke council has conducted two searches for a CAO since McInnis’ departure.
The first search resulted in the hiring of Jeremy Denegar, who then declined the position due to personal tragedy.
In a release, the district said Gray has two decades of experience in government and financial management.
Gray oversees a municipal budget of over $40 million and more than 60 employees.
“We are thrilled to officially appoint Raechel Gray as our chief administrative officer,” Sooke Mayor Maja Tait said in a statement.
“Raechel’s dedication to our community and citizen-focused service delivery has been instrumental in guiding us through various challenges and opportunities. I have full confidence that under her stewardship and leadership, the District of Sooke will thrive and prosper.”
Gray has been the district financial services director for five years and has more than two decades of experience in government and financial services. She is a chartered professional accountant.
“It’s an exciting time to work in local government and I’m honoured to serve as the chief administrative officer for the District of Sooke,” Gray said.
“Having had the privilege of working closely with the dedicated team here, I am excited to continue our collective efforts in advancing the district’s priorities and serving the needs of our current residents while planning for the needs of future generations.”
Gray’s appointment as the CAO is effective immediately.
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