Yellowknife's now-former city manager now has a new job and it's in Ontario.
The City of Thunder Bay announced on Wednesday that John Collin will become its new top bureaucrat with an official start date of June 17. Collin's last official day on the job in Yellowknife was May 13 after announcing his resignation on April 9, less than one month after taking over from Sheila Bassi-Kellett.
"Following an extensive candidate search and a rigorous selection process, City Council today announced the hiring of John Collin as the new City Manager, effective June 17," stated a press release from the city.
A glaring omission in the release is the mention of Collin's time in Yellowknife. It does, however, mention Collin was the city manager in Saint John, N.B. for four years, as well as his previous work experience.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to have been chosen as the new City Manager,” stated Collin in the release. “I would like to thank the Mayor and Council for their vote of confidence in me. I am excited to join a wonderful team and an even more wonderful city. There are incredible opportunities for Thunder Bay to grow and thrive, and I plan to help deliver on that potential while protecting what matters to the community.”
Yellowknifer reached out to TBnewswatch, the media outlet that first reported on Collin's new job, for more information on the story. Apparently, Collin spoke to media there on May 15. He said there were personal reasons for why he had to leave Yellowknife, but also saw the opportunity in Thunder Bay.
He also apparently told media there he could see Thunder Bay as his forever home.
Thunder Bay's current city manager, Norm Gale, will retire from the role in June.
Bassi-Kellett is returning to the city manager's role in Yellowknife on a temporary basis. She'll be in the position until a new permanent manager is found.