Published: October 1, 2026 @ 12:00 Noon
Lisa Smith selected as Chief Administrative Officer of the Town of Grand Bay-Westfield, New Brunswick
October 1, 2026 (GRAND BAY-WESTFIELD, NB) – After a competitive national search by the Town of Grand Bay-Westfield, supported by search firm KBRS, Town Council is delighted to welcome Lisa Smith as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
After extensive consultation, national recruitment, and multiple rounds of interviews – including presentations to Council – Town Council was unanimous in their support of Lisa’s candidacy.
Lisa Smith grew up spending her summers in the Saint John region and is excited to spend more time with her family here, calling a move to New Brunswick “a homecoming for me.” She built her career in community and economic development, first with the United Way, and most recently with the City of Cornwall, Ontario.
Lisa’s seven years in municipal government culminated in her role as Acting General Manager, Human Services and Long-Term Care with the City of Cornwall. There, she was responsible for social services, a municipal long-term care home, infrastructure projects delivered in partnership with provincial and federal governments, collective agreement negotiations, and significant operating and capital budgets. Earlier in her career, as Director of Philanthropic and Community Impact with the United Way of Greater Peterborough, she developed a strong foundation in community engagement, community investment, and strategic planning.
“Lisa’s energy and ideas, combined with her dedication to practical, careful development have really impressed us, and I am so excited to welcome her to our fantastic community and Town team. Please welcome her and share your thoughts on the future of Grand Bay-Westfield as you see her in Town in the coming months.” Mayor Brittany Merrifield, Town of Grand Bay-Westfield
Lisa is eager to become part of the community and begin supporting residents, Council, and Staff. “Grand Bay-Westfield is already an engaged and passionate community,” said Smith. “I look forward to working alongside residents, Council, and Staff to help advance the community’s priorities and support a strong future for Grand Bay-Westfield.”
Lisa’s career has seen her work with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and Ontario Social Services Association, instruct in the Certificate Program on Governance at Fleming College, and volunteer with the Optimist and Rotary Clubs. She loves to travel.
Lisa officially begins her role as CAO on October 19, 2026.
Town Council extends its sincere appreciation to Troy Gautreau for serving as Acting Chief Administrative Officer throughout the recruitment process. His steady leadership and commitment to the organization helped guide the Town through this transition, while maintaining a high level of service to residents, Council, and Staff.
Town Council further thanks all Town Staff for their professionalism and dedication during this period of change. Their hard work, resilience, and commitment to serving the community have been instrumental and appreciated.
Photo Submitted: Lisa Smith, Incoming Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Grand Bay-Westfield
Town Contact Information
Phone: (506) 738-6400
Email: administration@towngbw.ca
In-person: 609 River Valley Drive, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. (excluding holidays)
Stay Informed
Follow the Town of Grand Bay-Westfield on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.grandbaywestfield.ca
Register for Town News and Emergency Alerts
The Town of Grand Bay-Westfield encourages residents to register for the Town’s notification system, Voyent Alert!, a service that helps residents stay informed about Grand Bay-Westfield emergency alerts and advisories, news and public notices, community events, and traffic advisories. To register, visit HERE.
