Media Release - May 13, 2026 - CAO Appointment Announcement
Media Release - May 13, 2026
Municipality of Kincardine Appoints New Chief Administrative Officer
KINCARDINE, ON – The Municipality of Kincardine is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Smith as its new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Mr. Smith will officially join the Municipality on Monday, July 20, 2026.
Mr. Smith brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in local government across Ontario and British Columbia. He currently serves as CAO for the Town of Kirkland Lake, where he provides strategic leadership to municipal operations, supports Council’s priorities, and guides the organization through complex operational, infrastructure, and governance matters.
Throughout his career, Mr. Smith has held senior roles with the Town of Kirkland Lake, the Village of Masset, and the County of Elgin, and previously worked with the City of Guelph in economic development. He began his local government career developing community plans and economic development strategies for Gjoa Haven in western Nunavut.
Mr. Smith is widely recognized for his collaborative leadership style, strong communication skills, and commitment to accountability, transparency, and efficient service delivery. He has extensive experience in strategic planning, community engagement, and intergovernmental relations.
Throughout his career, Mr. Smith has held senior roles with the Town of Kirkland Lake, the Village of Masset, and the County of Elgin, and previously worked with the City of Guelph in economic development. He began his local government career developing community plans and economic development strategies for Gjoa Haven in western Nunavut.
Mr. Smith is widely recognized for his collaborative leadership style, strong communication skills, and commitment to accountability, transparency, and efficient service delivery. He has extensive experience in strategic planning, community engagement, and intergovernmental relations.
His academic background includes a Master’s degree in Rural Planning and Development from the University of Guelph, an Economics degree from Simon Fraser University, a Business diploma from the British Columbia Institute of Technology, AMCTO coursework in Government Administration and Finance, and a Certificate in Local Government Administration from Dalhousie University.
“We are very pleased to welcome Alan Smith to Kincardine,” said Mayor Kenneth Craig. “His extensive experience in municipal leadership, combined with his collaborative approach and commitment to public service, will be a tremendous asset as we continue to advance Council’s priorities and serve our community.”
Mr. Smith will succeed Interim CAO Kimberley Wingrove, who has been serving in the role since late November 2025. The Municipality extends its sincere appreciation to Ms. Wingrove for her leadership and dedication during the interim period.
Further information regarding Mr. Smith’s transition into the organization will be shared in the coming weeks.
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Media Inquiries:
Kenneth Craig, Mayor
Municipality of Kincardine
519-396-3468 x 7181
kcraig@kincardine.ca
Contact Us
The Municipality of Kincardine
1475 Concession 5, R.R.
#5, Kincardine, ON N2Z 2X6
Phone: 519-396-3468
F.: 519-396-8288
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