FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – March 8, 2022
Southwestern Ontario – The Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Kate Burns Gallagher as the inaugural Executive Director of the organization.
Kate has previously served two terms with the WOWC, including most recently as the Director of Economic Development, responsible for implementing the regional Economic Development Strategy. She has played key roles in both the municipal and federal levels of government and has a proven track record of bringing stakeholders together to implement action.
“We are thrilled to have Kate’s leadership on a permanent basis with the WOWC. Her expertise will help the WOWC to continue to represent the region and advocate for our key priorities moving forward,” stated Chair George Cornell.
As the WOWC Executive Director, Kate will be responsible for implementing the organization’s strategic direction and strengthening the organization’s position as a trusted, respected voice of Southwestern Ontario. The position involves program management, advocacy and working with an extensive network of senior level government and industry officials.
A special focus of the role will be the delivery and coordination of the economic development priorities identified in the southwestern Ontario Economic Development Strategy.
The WOWC’s priorities over the coming months include the implementation of the Western Ontario Workforce Strategy; municipal representation in Ontario Health Teams governance; continued provincial broadband infrastructure investment, and affordable and attainable housing in rural areas.
“I am looking forward to advancing the great work of the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus, representing our rural communities in the region, and particularly continuing the momentum of the Western Ontario Workforce Strategy and implementing actions in the region to support our municipalities, businesses and workforce needs,” said Kate Burns Gallagher, Executive Director.
Kate will begin her new position on Monday, March 21.
About
The Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC) is a not-for-profit organization representing 15 upper and single-tier municipalities in Southwestern Ontario, representing more than 1.5 million residents. The WOWC aims to enhance the prosperity and overall wellbeing of rural and small urban communities across the region. Caucus members work collectively to influence federal and provincial legislation and programs through advocacy, research, analysis and education. For more information, visit www.wowc.ca.
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Media Contact
Kate Burns Gallagher, Executive Director
Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus
