Scott Hildebrand, left, and Sean Smith (Image Credit: CFJC Today / City of Merritt)

By James Peters

City of Merritt

Merritt promotes Smith to CAO post, succeeding Hildebrand

Jul 17, 2020 | 11:02 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — The City of Merritt has moved quickly to fill its Chief Administrative Officer vacancy.

After 16 months heading up municipal staff in Merritt, Scott Hildebrand was announced as the new CAO of the Thompson-Nicola Regional District Thursday (July 16).

A day later, Merritt says Hildebrand’s successor will be his deputy, Sean Smith. The changes take effect August 10.

Smith was hired as Merritt’s director of corporate services in 2017 and appointed deputy CAO last year. He was previously a lawyer in Victoria.

In a news release, Merritt Mayor Linda Brown praised Hildebrand for his professionalism and said he will be missed. Brown notes a succession plan had been in place because the City knew Hildebrand would move on eventually.

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Culturally appropriate food goes beyond the ingredients on a plate

22h ago

Two and Out

PETERS: Whether building up or tearing down, Kamloops is what you make it

Dec 13, 2024

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: How to reduce food waste in Kamloops during the festive season

Dec 13, 2024