FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Middlesex County Appoints New CAO
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, July 21, 2025 – Middlesex County is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Shipway as the County’s new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), effective August 5, 2025. This appointment follows a comprehensive national recruitment process that attracted applicants from across the Country.
Paul has over 13 years of senior municipal leadership experience, having previously served as the CAO of the Municipality of Central Elgin and the CAO of the Municipality of Bayham. Most recently, Paul has served as the General Manager of Strategic Initiatives & Innovation for Middlesex County.
As a highly respected figure in municipal administration, Paul is known for his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to driving meaningful organizational change. Paul has been an active member of the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks & Treasurers of Ontario since 2012, most recently serving as Board President for 2024-2025.
Having grown up in Ailsa Craig, Paul understands and respects the County’s rural identity, along with the significant opportunities our region has for growth and development. Paul and his family look forward to being active members of the Middlesex County community.
Please join us in welcoming Paul Shipway as CAO of Middlesex County.
QUOTES:
“On behalf of County Council, I am pleased to welcome Paul Shipway as Middlesex County’s new CAO. Paul brings a tremendous amount of energy, integrity and strategic vision to this role. His enthusiasm and leadership will be instrumental as we begin an exciting new chapter in Middlesex. I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to Durk Vanderwerff for his exceptional service and leadership as Interim CAO.” – Warden Brian Ropp
“I am pleased to welcome Paul Shipway as our next CAO. His leadership, experience and vision will undoubtedly guide our organization toward continued success. It has been a privilege to work alongside Council, staff and the community as Interim CAO. I sincerely appreciate the trust and support from Council and my colleagues, and I am proud of how we have navigated this transition together.” – Interim CAO Durk Vanderwerff
“It is a privilege and honour to have been selected as Middlesex County CAO, especially in this milestone year marking 225 years of community, leadership, agricultural heritage and progress. I look forward to working alongside County Council, our dedicated staff, local municipalities, and all those we collaborate with to deliver outcomes that reflect Council’s shared priorities and support vibrant, inclusive, and thriving communities across the County.” – Incoming CAO, Paul Shipway
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Middlesex County is an innovative, well-run organization offering high-value programs and services to the best community in which to live, visit, and do business in Southwestern Ontario. The County serves a vibrant, growing community of 81,700 people and offers a great place to call home, offering exceptional lifestyle, a wide variety of local attractions, and a wonderful sense of community.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations
Legislative Services Division
@email