There is an opening in the municipality’s inner circle.
Cathy Hoffman, general manager of corporate services and top human resource officer, recently announced her retirement following 33 years of municipal service.
The member of the executive management team for Chatham-Kent began her career pre-amalgamation in 1992 in the social services department for the City of Chatham.
When amalgamation was thrust upon Chatham and Kent County by the province six years later, Hoffman transitioned into the position of manager of recruitment, training and development.
She climbed the civil service ladder, being named as director of human resources in 2003. In 2017, she landed her current role.
Throughout her career, Hoffman has been an integral part of numerous committees, both within the municipality and externally, making significant contributions to policy development, workforce planning, and organizational excellence, according to municipal officials.
Her professional achievements include earning the Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designation, a Master of Public Administration (MPA), and a Municipal Law Certification.
“It has been a true privilege to spend so many years working alongside great colleagues who care deeply about making a difference in our community,” Hoffman said in a media release. “I am grateful beyond words for the opportunities I had and even more excited to see all the ways our municipal team will eclipse the accomplishments that I got to be a part of.”
Municipal CAO Michael Duben said her retirement will leave a void.
“Cathy has played a vital role in shaping our organization’s culture, mentoring countless colleagues, and championing initiatives that have strengthened our workforce,” he said. “Her leadership, knowledge, and passion for public service will be deeply missed. Cathy’s impact on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent has been nothing short of profound and she will be leaving a legacy of leadership that will not be soon forgotten.”
Cathy’s retirement coincides with the search for a deputy CAO that is currently underway and will generate opportunities for restructuring the municipality’s executive management team.
