For the third time in as many years, St. Thomas is on the hunt for a city manager as Michael Bradley prepares to leave his current role this month.
The city announced Bradley has accepted the CAO position in his hometown of Brantford, marking the end of his six-month tenure here.
Before accepting the post in St. Thomas, Bradley had been the Commissioner of Community Development with the City of Brantford.
He also served for 11 years with the County of Brant, including a stint as CAO from 2018 to 2023.
Mayor Joe Preston admitted to a level of frustration but added there is a reason to celebrate.
The city has begun the search for Bradley’s successor, aiming to fill the post in the coming weeks, keeping in mind the holiday season is looming.
Bradley became the third city manager after Sandra Datars Bere and Wendell Graves, who retired at the end of February 2022.
Preston stressed, “All hiring ideas will come to the table.”
He added, the search is on for absolutely the best CAO out there who wants to be in St. Thomas.
Preston pointed out St. Thomas and area is an attractive employment destination since the announcement the PowerCo EV battery gigafactory will locate in the city.
“There are lots of other choices out there and there are lots of good things we can do and I’ve got a great council that will help me with it. It’s never a perfect time for this to happen.
“I want really good (person to fill the position) and that is not easy to do quickly.”
Bradley is quoted in the mayor’s media release thanking those he has worked with during his stay in the city.
“I want to express my genuine appreciation to Mayor Preston, city council, staff, and the wider community for welcoming me to St. Thomas.
“I have fully enjoyed my time here in this amazing city, and while this decision was not made lightly, I look forward to returning to my home community in Brantford.
“I am positive that the City of St. Thomas has a bright future ahead under the leadership of city council and the dedicated staff teams.”
