Brock University graduate Shelley Chemnitz (BAdmin ’89) has taken the helm at the City of St. Catharines, appointed as the municipality’s new chief administrative officer.

Chemnitz had been filling the role in an acting capacity since July when former CAO Dan Carnegie retired.

She brings more than two decades of financial, administrative and leadership experience to her new position, after previously working as the City’s treasurer and commissioner of corporate support services.

“My experience at Brock University as a graduate of the Accounting Co-op program gave me the firm foundation that led to my success and future career,” said Chemnitz, a St. Catharines native.

The knowledge she gained during her University studies helped her to build the skills and confidence needed to enter the professional world.

“The experiential education program at Brock was and still is an excellent way to prepare students for success,” Chemnitz said. “It allowed me to use the skills I learned to build my career.”

As the St. Catharines CAO, Chemnitz will serve as the link between City Council and the City’s administration. She will oversee the senior management team and is responsible for delivering Council’s long-term strategy and vision for the municipality.