Council names Wendy Stephanson as new City of Ottawa manager

Wendy Stephanson has been appointed as the new manager of the City of Ottawa.

Ottawa City Council officially made the decision during its council meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 23.

Stephanson was named the City’s interim manager in November of 2022 after Steve Kanellakos, who served as the City of Ottawa’s manager for seven years, announced his resignation.

Ottawa Mayor Mark Sucliffe said he was “delighted” that council has chosen Stephanson as the new city manager.

Sutcliffe was involved in a search committee for a new manager along with councillors Catherine Kitts, Shawn Menard and Tim Tierney.

“We chose the best person for the job,” said Sutcliffe during the council meeting.

Stephanson previously served as the City’s chief financial officer.

Her five-year term as city manager ends on Aug. 31, 2028.

I’m delighted to announce that City Council has chosen Wendy Stephanson as the new city manager. This follows a process conducted by a search committee on which I was joined by @catherinekitts, @ShawnMenard1, and @TimTierney. I’m very much looking forward to working with Wendy… pic.twitter.com/iPeDRIiEqI

— Mark Sutcliffe (@_MarkSutcliffe) August 23, 2023