Will Tewnion was named Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Swan River in March of 2025.
Reporting to the mayor and council, Will was responsible for providing leadership and senior management for the Town's municipal operations and departments. He was tasked with implementing the direction, policies, bylaws, resolutions, and decisions of Council.
He was required to build effective relationships with residents, community organizations, businesses, neighbouring municipalities, First Nations, and provincial and federal governments. He also supported long-term strategic planning and the continued growth and development of the Town of Swan River.
On July 24, the Town of Swan River announced that he will resign from the position. He will remain in the role until October 23.
Mayor Lance Jacobson wasn't expecting Will to leave, but he thanked him for his service. He understands it's a demanding role and comes with challenges.
"While he was in the office, Will served very well," said Jacobson. "He organized the office, and the staff really liked him. Council enjoyed working with him. He made the decision that it's time for him to move on."
Will is a former RCMP officer. He has family and grandkids. Lance understands his decision and wishes him the best moving forward.
Now the search for a new CAO begins. The successful candidate should have a certificate in Manitoba Municipal Administration or equivalent municipal administration education and experience. They should have experience working with elected officials, boards, committees, and councils. They should also have experience in financial planning, municipal budgeting, and financial oversight.
Someone with strong leadership, problem-solving, decision-making skills, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines is what the Town of Swan River is looking for.
"Be willing and ready to take on challenges that we have to deal with regularly," said Jacobson. "Just like we did with the flood. Be prepared for emergencies in the future or anything else that comes our way. Making sure that we have good relations with other municipalities. Having that ability to connect and work with our provincial and federal governments."
As CAO, some of the key responsibilities include supporting and developing the Town's management and employees.
Provide leadership in human resources and labour relations within a unionized environment, and ensure municipal operations comply with legislation, policies, bylaws, agreements, and regulatory requirements.
If you are interested in applying, Lance said living in Swan River is a great thing. The growing community has lots to offer, including recreation, arts, and dining.
"You know, people always tell me they can't believe what Swan River has to offer," said Jacobson. "We have a lot to offer for our CAO. Whether single, married with children, and so on. There is a lot to offer for them to have a good quality of life."
He says anyone interested in taking on a new challenge and wanting to take on a bit more could find this the perfect fit.
"We have really good staff. They're organized from the financial side of things to day-to-day operations," ended Jacobson. "We have great people working. For a CAO to move into this position, it won't be too difficult. There isn't any cleaning up. A person can come and immediately start getting to work."
You can submit your application to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you have any further questions about the position, call 734-4586 and ask for Uriah Waldner, executive assistant.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
