Ottawa city council turned to a familiar face for its new city manager Monday, appointing Steve Kanellakos to the position.
“The city of Ottawa is undergoing unprecedented growth with the expansion of light rail transit, a new innovation centre, new cultural landmark facilities, and other city-building projects, Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson said in a statement. “Our council, residents, employees, and stakeholders will be well served by the dynamic and prudent management style of Mr. Kanellakos as the City moves forward with its challenging, ambitious priorities.”
Mr. Kanellakos spent 30 years with the city before leaving last year for the city manager position in Vaughn.
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The announcement is the culmination of an 18-week hiring process with the city’s finance and economic development committee serving as the hiring committee.
Mr. Kanellakos has involvement in several city-building projects on his resume, including the Arts Court redevelopment and Ottawa Art Gallery expansion project, Shenkman Arts Centre, and two Sensplex arena facilities.
He replaces Kent Kirkpatrick, who announced his retirement last year.
Mr. Kanellakos begins his new position May 2.
