The Wood Buffalo Housing and Development Corporation has named a new president and CEO.
Henry Hunter will step into the role effective February 1st.
He comes to the job with wide experience in both the private and public sectors, having spent the past four years in our region, most recently as Vice President of Capital Project and Facilities Operations at Keyano College.
“I am looking forward to working with the WBHDC Board of Directors and staff on important housing issues for our region,” said Hunter. “The Wood Buffalo region is facing many challenges following the wildfire and the economic downturn. I am excited to be part of a great team working to find affordable housing solutions that will play an important part in the recovery of our community.”
Hunter’s public sector background also includes roles as executive director of Public Infrastructure and Planning at the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, and manager of Utility Development and of Capital Projects at the City of Winnipeg. His private sector experience includes management of large capital and environmental projects in the United Kingdom and the State of Qatar.
“We are pleased that Henry will be bringing his considerable expertise to work with us,” said Maggie Farrington, Chair of the WBHDC. “He joins us at a time when the issues surrounding affordable rental and community housing options are more important than ever for our community.”
The priorities as Hunter assumes his new duties will be developing a business plan for corporate and financial sustainability in the face of a changed local economic landscape. He will also be developing long-term plans for stakeholder relations and public reputation building, and a change management plan that will build positive corporate culture and employee morale in the face of long-term challenges for affordable housing in the region.
“Our staff at WBHDC are our biggest asset,” says Farrington. “They have worked incredibly hard in the face of the economic downturn and the aftermath of the wildfire to help make our community a better place to live with affordable housing options for all.”
She said the board is looking forward to working with Hunter as he develops a plan for leading the team that contributes so much to our community.
